US President Donald Trump, upon returning to Washington from a high-profile state visit to the United Kingdom, stated that UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer appeared “embarrassed” during their private discussions when questioned about Europe’s ongoing purchase of Russian oil.
In an interview with Fox News, Trump highlighted that the topic of Ukraine was a significant focal point during their discussions at Chequers, the Prime Minister’s country residence. Both leaders evaluated strategies aimed at bringing the conflict to an end.
Trump noted that while Starmer was not directly implicated in the matter, he seemed uncomfortable when challenged about the energy ties between European nations and Russia. “He did (raise the issue of Ukraine). Well, he was a little embarrassed that I caught Europe, NATO countries, and EU countries buying oil from Russia,” Trump remarked. He added, “He appreciated that I said it, but he said that’s not good. How about that?”
The former US president pressed Starmer on whether he would implement sanctions on Russian oil imports, to which Starmer reportedly affirmed he would take action. Trump clarified that Starmer is not among those responsible for the Russian oil situation.
Reiterating his stance on the necessity of cutting off Russian oil sales, Trump emphasized that doing so is crucial for resolving the conflict in Ukraine. “Ultimately, if oil prices go down, or if Russia is not selling oil, they have no choice but to settle,” he said, adding that the purchase of oil by EU or NATO nations complicates matters.
Trump expressed that he had underestimated the complexity of the conflict in Ukraine, admitting he felt “let down” by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
In addition to the situation in Ukraine, Trump and Starmer addressed the escalating migration crisis affecting both countries. Trump drew comparisons between the illegal crossings in the UK’s Channel and those at the US southern border, advocating for a stronger response from Starmer. “You have people coming in, and I told the Prime Minister I would stop it. It doesn’t matter if you call out the military, it doesn’t matter what means you use,” he stated, as reported by CNN.
In a subsequent Fox News interview, Trump reiterated his warnings, asserting that unchecked illegal migration “destroys countries from within.” Since returning to the White House in January, he has reportedly intensified efforts on deportations and curtailing unlawful border crossings.
During the two-day state visit, Trump and First Lady Melania were welcomed by King Charles III and the Royal Family at Windsor Castle, where they attended a ceremonial state banquet followed by political discussions with Starmer. In a joint press conference, the two leaders celebrated the “special relationship” between the UK and the US while announcing a significant technology investment agreement aimed at enhancing cooperation in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and other emerging technologies.
Trump described this agreement as a landmark initiative that would enable both nations to “dominate” the field of AI and maintain a strategic advantage in global innovation.
As Trump’s visit concluded, both governments signaled a desire for closer ties, yet also highlighted key areas of tension, particularly regarding approaches to Russian sanctions and migration issues. While PM Starmer committed to collaborating with the US on global security challenges, Trump’s direct remarks concerning Russian oil and border enforcement may complicate future discussions between the allies.
