David Lammy has characterized Donald Trump’s derogatory remarks aimed at Keir Starmer as “small and petty,” asserting that they are intended to pressure the UK Prime Minister to alter his stance on Iran. He emphasized that the United Kingdom would not be drawn into the ongoing conflict.
The Deputy Prime Minister expressed that the President of the United States should engage with allies in a more civil manner, rather than resorting to social media attacks. He noted that US actions have contributed to worsening global instability rather than improving it.
The relationship between the UK and the US has become increasingly tense amid the ongoing conflict, with Trump often criticizing Starmer for not committing British military resources to the war effort. In response, Starmer expressed his frustration over how Trump’s actions in the Middle East are impacting energy costs in Britain. Chancellor Rachel Reeves labeled the conflict a “mistake” that is destabilizing the global economy.
In a bid to mend relations and highlight the urgency of reopening the Strait of Hormuz—a vital maritime route for global oil and goods—Lammy visited Washington last week to meet with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
In his first interview following the trip, Lammy conveyed his belief that US politicians recognize the economic ramifications of the war, primarily driven by self-interest, and that Vance himself is mindful of the rising cost of living as the US midterm elections approach.
On Sunday, Trump announced that US negotiators would travel to Pakistan to resume peace discussions but warned that the US would “knock out” Iran’s power plants if a deal was not reached, while the Strait remains blocked.
When asked if he felt reassured by the US’s commitment to resolving the conflict, Lammy responded, “The main concern everyone is discussing is affordability and prices. This war, coupled with the situation in Ukraine and the pandemic, has exacerbated issues. The sooner it concludes, the better for all.”
During a conference for global progressives in Barcelona, Lammy remarked, “Trump is attempting to pressure the Prime Minister to alter his position on Iran, but that is not going to happen. This is not our war, and we will not become involved.”
He continued, “The rhetoric is intense, but the public is starting to perceive it for what it is. Some of Trump’s comments from a few weeks ago regarding the contributions of our armed forces in Afghanistan are simply baffling.”
Lammy emphasized the necessity of reopening the Strait for the global economy’s sake. “He referenced the price of petrol in the US. I sensed that he himself acknowledges the impact on affordability, especially with the midterms approaching.”
Later this month, King Charles and Queen Camilla are scheduled to visit the US for a state visit, amid concerns that the King may face an awkward situation due to the current strained relations. However, Lammy expressed confidence that the visit would be a significant success. “All the politicians I spoke to recognize that this is not just any state visit; it commemorates 250 years of independence.”
He noted that the visit presents an opportunity to reflect on the historical transatlantic relationship, particularly during challenging times.
“Let’s be clear: figures like Churchill and Roosevelt had differing views on handling Stalin; Wilson disagreed with the US administration on Vietnam; even Thatcher and Reagan had differing opinions regarding Grenada.”
While acknowledging the special relationship between the US and the UK, Lammy maintained that it is also possible to have disagreements. “In my view, it is preferable to disagree in a civil manner, which has traditionally been our approach. I lament the current social media landscape where we are not meeting those standards.”
Regarding the European Union, Lammy, who met with leftist leaders including Spain’s Pedro Sánchez and Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, stated that the UK is seeking greater alignment on goods as the next election approaches. “I sense that both in Europe and the UK, there is a recognition that enhanced alignment with the EU is advantageous for everyone during these tough economic times.”
He remarked, “These are times when unity is essential, especially in an era of rising protectionism.” However, the committed europhile admitted he has “stopped making predictions” about the possibility of the UK rejoining the EU during his lifetime.
Reflecting on the current political landscape, Lammy noted, “I entered politics during a time when there was a centrist political ground. I never anticipated witnessing the rise of populism and the extreme rhetoric—particularly those with nativist and racial undertones—that we see today.”
Nevertheless, he remains optimistic about the UK’s ability to act in its best interests during challenging economic periods, which he believes entails closer ties with the EU, its largest trading partner.
In the past week, Lammy has traveled to the US, the Gulf region, and Spain on behalf of the Prime Minister and is frequently consulted on US relations. When asked about suggestions that he is the “real” foreign secretary, he chuckled and mentioned that he had recently spoken with Yvette Cooper, who is managing the day-to-day operations following her diplomatic tour of the Middle East. “She is absolutely leading in this area, and I assist as needed,” he stated.
Lammy expressed that he believes Starmer’s handling of the conflict has strengthened his domestic position, although he acknowledged that the upcoming local elections would be “challenging,” with some voters potentially expressing discontent with Labour.
