Donald Trump slams former UK PM Keir Starmer over energy, immigration and Iran stance

U.S. President Donald Trump renewed his criticism of outgoing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer following Starmer’s resignation. Trump said Starmer had "done a lot of damage" on energy and immigration, faulting the United Kingdom’s reliance on North Sea oil and its environmental policies. He also rebuked Starmer for initially refusing U.S. use of British bases for the February 28 surprise offensive against Iran, claiming the British public "did not like" that decision.

Trump described Starmer as a "very nice man" and a "friend" but asserted he had hurt himself badly on these issues. The comments came as Starmer stepped down after losing support within the Labour Party. Trump also used the remarks to criticize NATO allies, accusing them of free‑riding on U.S. defense spending and hinting at a reduced willingness to defend them in future conflicts.