Starmer Defends Britain’s Energy Direction, Rejects Trump’s Dismissal of Wind Power

From the ballroom of his Turnberry golf club in Scotland, former U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a speech that was equal parts praise and provocation. He spoke glowingly of the enduring “special relationship” between the United States and the United Kingdom. There was admiration for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, kind words for King Charles, and even a nostalgic nod to his Scottish roots through his mother’s homeland.

But behind the compliments, there were also firm warnings. Trump didn’t shy away from challenging Starmer on key policy fronts, including immigration, energy, and taxation. He also revived an old feud, aiming a sharp critique at London Mayor Sadiq Khan, a close political ally of the Prime Minister.

During a joint press appearance that stretched over an hour, the two leaders sat side by side as they fielded questions on a range of global issues. These included setting a new timeline for a potential ceasefire in Ukraine and unveiling a proposal for food centres to alleviate hunger in Gaza.

Trump, known for his fiery rhetoric, adopted a notably more diplomatic tone when discussing the Anglo-American alliance. Gone was the usual combative style. In its place was a polished, almost presidential demeanour. Starmer, who spoke for only a brief portion of the 72-minute event, returned the compliments with ease. The mutual display of respect marked a new chapter in what is a growing rapport between two men from very different political worlds.

Still, there were moments of tension. When Trump launched a personal attack on Sadiq Khan, accusing him of mismanaging London and calling him a “nasty person,” Starmer stepped in. He listened carefully as Trump praised his record on cutting immigration, noting that it played a central role in his 2024 election win. Trump tied that success to other pillars of his platform, including tax cuts and economic growth.

Meanwhile, Starmer finds himself facing economic headwinds at home. Just a year after winning a historic landslide, his government is grappling with a stagnant economy and rising fiscal pressures. Many analysts believe a wave of tax increases could be on the horizon to address the growing budget deficit.

The two leaders also discussed energy policy, a topic that revealed more differences than they had expected. While both expressed interest in the promise of small modular nuclear reactors, Trump urged the UK to tap into its domestic oil and gas reserves more aggressively. He reiterated his criticism of offshore wind farms, particularly those located near his golf properties, which are a central part of Starmer’s net-zero strategy.

Despite their policy disagreements, the visit was marked by moments of warmth and symbolism. Trump confirmed plans to return in September for a formal state visit hosted by King Charles. This upcoming trip will mark a historic moment, as it will be the first time a modern world leader has undertaken two state visits to the United Kingdom. The invitation was extended during Starmer’s February visit to the White House, signalling a new phase of transatlantic diplomacy.

Earlier this year, Washington and London signed a bilateral trade agreement. It was the first such deal following the imposition of steep global tariffs by the Trump administration and is seen as a pivotal moment in redefining the post-Brexit economic relationship between the two countries.

Trump’s current visit is set to conclude on Tuesday. Before departing, he will officially open a new golf course near Aberdeen. The course is named in honour of his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, who was born and raised on a remote Scottish island before immigrating to the United States.