Starmer charms Trump with second state visit invitation

PM flatters president to secure wins over Chagos and tariffs

- DAVID MADDOX

Sir Keir Starmer delivered a diplomatic success yesterday as he appeared to charm Donald Trump into cooperation on major issues during his visit to the White House. Even before formal talks had begun, the prime minister looked to have secured a number of concessions on areas including trade and Ukraine.

In front of reporters and cameras in the Oval Office, their meeting began with a flourish from Sir Keir as he produced a letter from King Charles inviting the US president to make a second state visit to Britain. A pre-visit will initially take place at Balmoral, but Mr Trump could also address a joint sitting of parliament at Westminster.

As the president accepted the invitation, Sir Keir emphasised that he is the first president to have secured two state visit invitations.

President Trump, who dominated the news conference, was also flattered when the prime minister thanked him “for changing the conversation on Ukraine”. But there were some awkward moments, including when Mr Trump mocked the prime minister, asking: “Can you take on Russia by yourselves?” – at which Sir Keir only laughed.