Anneliese Dodds has quit her role as international development minister over prime minister Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to slash the international aid budget to increase defence spending.
The Labour MP predicted in a letter to the prime minister that he would find it impossible to continue support for Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan given the severity of the cut to 0.3 per cent of GNI (gross national income).
She revealed she was only told of the decision on Monday, but held off resigning until he had returned from Washington, to ensure a united and successful visit to Donald Trump.
Earlier, health secretary Wes Streeting has stressed that the NHS was “not on the table” in any US trade deal.
The US president said he had “great discussions on trade” with Sir Keir and expressed confidence that a deal could be reached “rather quickly”.
“I think we’ll have two deals,” he said, “a deal on ending the war [in Ukraine] and a great trade deal with you [the UK]”.
But the prime minister failed to secure key concessions over Ukraine in critical White House talks.
Sir Keir opened his talks with Mr Trump with a charm offensive, delivering an unprecedented second royal invitation for a state visit, which the US president readily accepted.
Key Points
- Anneliese Dodds quits over Starmer slashing foreign aid budget
- Minister draws comparison to Trump decision to slash USAid
- Trump says 'terrific' trade deal with UK likely
- Streeting says NHS 'not up for grabs' in any US trade deal
- President dodges prime minister's plea for Ukraine security guarantees
- President indicates he will back Starmer's Chagos deal
Devolution plans will end ‘begging-bowl culture’, Rayner tells leaders in North
15:45 , Holly EvansAngela Rayner has said her devolution plans will end the “begging-bowl culture” of regional leaders appealing to Whitehall for funds.
The Deputy Prime Minister also told leaders in the north of England that mayors are an “army to take on blockers” to the Government’s plans to boost building.
The Government is re-organising local authorities and bringing in new mayoral powers under its devolution plans.
The Deputy Prime Minister said a newly created “department-style” funding settlement that gave more than £1 billion of flexible funding to the West Midlands and Greater Manchester will be extended to mayors in Liverpool, the North East, and South and West Yorkshire.
“We are ending the begging-bowl culture and giving local leaders flexibility over their spending,” she told the Convention of the North event in Preston.
Ms Rayner, who is also Local Government Secretary, said that putting funding for regeneration in the hands of mayors and moving Homes England to a more regionalised model over time would help in Labour’s bid to build 1.5 million homes by the end of this Parliament.
These measures will form part of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill that aims to cut red tape and get more building plans approved.
How Trump made Farage look a fool and Starmer a prime minister
15:20 , Holly EvansMoments after the plane had taken off from Andrews military airport in Washington DC to take Keir Starmer and his entourage home, an emotionally drained but clearly happy prime minister walked down the aircraft for a mini victory lap for what he and his team considered to be a triumphant trip to the White House.
While he felt he had achieved as much as he could have hoped for on his foreign policy agenda, the real success for the prime minister though may have actually been in terms of domestic politics.
In particular there was one big loser from what transpired in the Oval Office on Thursday - Nigel Farage.
Read the full article here:
How Trump made Farage look a fool and Starmer a prime minister
Starmer says cutting aid funding was 'painful' decision
15:02 , Holly EvansSir Keir Starmer has said that the decision to cut aid funding was “a difficult and painful” one as he thanked Anneliese Dodds for her work as a minister.
In a letter responding to Ms Dodds resignation, the Prime Minister said: “Overseas development is vitally important, and I am proud of what we have done. The UK will still be providing significant humanitarian and development support, and we will continue to protect vital programmes, including in the world’s worst conflict zones of Ukraine, Gaza and Sudan.
“The decision I have taken on the impact on ODA was a difficult and painful decision and not one I take lightly. We will do everything we can to return to a world where that is not the case and to rebuild a capability on development.
“However, protecting our national security must always be the first duty of any government and I will always act in the best interests of the British people.”
Trump ‘recognises the strength’ of Chagos deal – No 10 says
14:48 , Holly EvansDonald Trump “recognises the strength” of the Chagos Islands deal, Downing Street said after the US president signalled he would back it.
Mr Trump said he thought the US would be “inclined to go along” with Sir Keir Starmer’s deal to hand over sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius when the two leaders met at the White House on Thursday.
No 10 said it was right for the new US administration to look at the agreement, which was agreed under Mr Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden.
The agreement includes a plan to lease back the strategically important US-UK military base on Diego Garcia at British taxpayers’ expense.
The UK has offered Mr Trump an effective veto on the deal because of its implications for US security, and allies of the president have criticised the plan.
Speaking in the Oval Office alongside the Prime Minister, Mr Trump said: “We’re going to have some discussions about that very soon, and I have a feeling it’s going to work out very well.”
He said it was a “very long-term, powerful lease, a very strong lease” and that “I think we’ll be inclined to go along with your country.”
Anneliese Dodds’s resignation is like Robin Cook’s – principled, but ultimately pointless
14:27 , Holly EvansWhen Keir Starmer announced the switch in spending from foreign aid to defence, the response from the Labour Party seemed surprisingly muted. Now we know why.
Anneliese Dodds, the international development minister, did not want to disrupt the prime minister’s visit to Donald Trump and was saving her resignation for afterwards.
Her loyalty to the prime minister, the government and the party resembles that of Robin Cook in 2003. He resigned as foreign secretary over the decision to join the US invasion of Iraq, but he did so respecting Tony Blair’s integrity, and very much more in sorrow than in anger – as resignations on matters of principle ought to be.
Dodds’s resignation letter says that she agrees that “we must increase defence spending”. In this, she differs from Diane Abbott, the former shadow home secretary, who argued in The Independent yesterday that more spending on defence will make us less safe.
Read the full article here:
Anneliese Dodds’s resignation is like Robin Cook’s – principled, but pointless
Starmer to discuss how to make peace ‘stick’ with Zelensky
14:15 , Holly EvansThe Prime Minister is preparing to discuss how to guarantee a peace deal in Ukraine will last when he meets Volodymyr Zelensky in Downing Street this weekend.
Leaders from across Europe will gather in London on Sunday, following a week which will have seen Sir Keir, France’s Emmanuel Macron and the Ukrainian president travel for talks with US president Donald Trump.
The Ukrainian leader will follow Sir Keir in meeting with Mr Trump in Washington on Friday and finalising a deal that will give the US access to Ukraine’s earth minerals, which Downing Street has welcomed as it would “bind” Washington to Kyiv.
Ahead of Sunday’s summit focused on security, the Prime Minister will meet with Mr Zelensky separately.
A Downing Street spokesman said on Friday that “the UK has made it clear that we’ll play our full part in ensuring a just and lasting peace deal on Ukraine’s terms, backed up by strong security guarantees.
“Just this week we demonstrated our commitment to that confirming we’ll increase defence spending to 2.5% by 2027. But that peace deal has to come first and as you know the Prime Minister will meet President Zelensky before convening European leaders in London on Sunday to continue those discussions.
“The deal has to come first, but our teams are going to be talking about how we make sure that deal sticks and is lasting and enforced.”
Children's charity says Starmer decision will be 'catastrophic'
14:08 , Holly EvansResponding to the news of the resignation of Anneliese Dodds, Kathleen Spencer Chapman, Director of Influencing and External Affairs at children’s charity Plan International UK said: “We share Annelise Dodds’s extreme disappointment at the Prime Minister’s shortsighted decision to slash the overseas aid budget.
“Her resignation shows that the most influential politicians in the Labour Party echo our outrage at the Government’s decision to slash an already woefully cut overseas aid budget. Cutting international aid to the lowest level since 1999 does not have a consensus across Parliament.
“Overseas aid saves lives. The Prime Minister’s decision will be catastrophic for millions of people affected by conflict, hunger, poverty and violence, including in Gaza, Sudan and Ukraine.
“At a time when humanitarian needs remain at an all-time high, the UK should be stepping up and showing its commitment to overseas aid. Instead, it is adding to the suffering.
“Plan International UK urgently calls on the Prime Minister to abandon this inhumane decision. Overseas aid saves children’s lives: the Government must reverse the cuts now.
“We would also like to thank the Minister for the commitment she showed to gender equality in both her Ministerial roles - we urge the government to continue to prioritise enhancing gender equality and protecting the rights of girls across the globe.”
Lib Dems back Dodds
13:50The Liberal Democrat spokesperson for international development said Anneliese Dodds had done the right thing.
Monica Harding wrote on social media: "The Government's position on the international aid cut is unsustainable.
"Increasing defence spending to 2.5% is the right thing to do as the global threats we face intensify.
"But doing so by cutting the international aid budget is like taking off the roof to put up another wall. The Government haven't even carried out an impact assessment.”
'Impossible to maintain priorities': Dodds resigns – full report
13:46 , Jane Dalton
Minister Anneliese Dodds resigns over Starmer move to cut foreign aid budget
Dodds' resignation letter in full
13:41 , Jane DaltonRead the letter to Sir Keir Starmer:
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch appears to have backed the Prime Minister's decision to cut overseas aid to fund a boost to defence spending following Anneliese Dodds's ministerial resignation.
In a social media post, Mrs Badenoch wrote: "I disagree with the PM on many things but on reducing the foreign aid budget to fund UK defence? He's absolutely right.
"He may not be able to convince the ministers in his own cabinet, but on this subject, I will back him.
"National interest always comes first."
I disagree with the PM on many things BUT on reducing the foreign aid budget to fund UK defence? He’s absolutely right.
— Kemi Badenoch (@KemiBadenoch) February 28, 2025
He may not be able to convince the ministers in his own cabinet, but on this subject, I will back him.
National interest always comes first. https://t.co/hwTsp4MF2q
Tory ex-development secretary backs Dodds
13:32 , Jane DaltonFormer international development secretary Andrew Mitchell said Anneliese Dodds had "done the right thing".
The Tory ex-foreign office minister said: "Anneliese has done the right thing.
"Labour's disgraceful and cynical actions demean the Labour Party's reputation as they balance the books on the backs of the poorest people in the world. Shame on them and kudos to a politician of decency and principle."
Reduction of foreign aid budget will 'harm UK's reputation'
12:54 , Holly EvansAnneliese Dodds wrote that while the defence budget needed to be increased, she disagreed with the decision for her budget to “absorb the entire burden”.
While Starmer has insisted that the UK will continue to support crucial aid programmes in wartorn regions such as Gaza, Sudan and Ukraine, Ms Dodds said it would be “impossible to maintain these priorities”.
“The cut will also likely lead to a UK pullout from numerous African, Caribbean and western Balkan nations at a time when Russia has been aggressively increasing its global presence,” she said.
She stressed that this could lead to the UK being shut out of numerous bilateral bodies and having a reduced voice in G7, G20 and climate negotiations.
“All this while China is seeking to rewrite global rules, and when the climate crisis is the biggest security threat of them all,” she wrote.
UK foreign aid: How much is spent and who receives it?
12:46 , Holly EvansSir Keir Starmer is set to slash the UK’s foreign aid budget to fund the largest increase in defence spending since the Cold War.
The prime minister said the extra £13.4bn for defence every year from 2027 was needed to counter “tyrants” like Vladimir Putin.
The increase in defence spending from 2.3 per cent to 2.5 per cent of GDP will be funded by cutting spending on overseas aid from 0.5 per cent of gross national income (GNI) to 0.3 per cent, Sir Keir said.
Read the full article here:
UK foreign aid: How much is spent and who receives it as Starmer slashes budget
Minister draws comparison to Trump decision to slash USAid
12:37 , Holly EvansIn her resignation letter, Dodds said that she had decided to resign upon learning of the cuts on Monday, but waited until Starmer had returned from seeing President Donald Trump in Washington DC.
She wrote: “It was imperative that you had a united cabinet behind you as you set off for Washington. Your determination to pursue peace through strength for Ukraine is one I share.
“It is for that reason that I am only writing to you now that your meeting with President Trump is over, and four days after you informed me of your decision to cut overseas development assistance to 0.3 per cent of GNI.”
She concluded: “Ultimately, these cuts will remove food and healthcare from desperate people – deeply harming the UK’s reputation. I know you have been clear that you are not ideologically opposed to international development. But the reality is that this decision is already being portrayed as following in President Trump’s slipstream of cuts to USAid.
Dodds recognises defence spending must increase
12:28 , Holly EvansIn her letter to the prime minister, Anneliese Dodds wrote: “Undoubtedly the postwar global order has come crashing down. I believe that we must increase spending on defence as a result; and know that there are no easy paths to doing so.
“I stood ready to work with you to deliver that increased spending, knowing some might well have had to come from overseas development assistance [ODA]. I also expected we would collectively discuss our fiscal rules and approach to taxation, as other nations are doing.
“Even 3 per cent may only be the start, and it will be impossible to raise the substantial resources needed just through tactical cuts to public spending. These are unprecedented times, when strategic decisions for the sake of our country’s security cannot be ducked.”
Dodds resigns over disagreement with aid funding
12:25 , Holly EvansPosting her resignation letter on social media, Ms Dodds wrote: “It is with sadness that I have had to tender my resignation as minister for international development and for women and equalities.
“While I disagree with the ODA decision, I continue to support the Government and its determination to deliver the change our country needs.”
Anneliese Dodds quits over Starmer slashing foreign aid budget
12:17 , Holly EvansAnneliese Dodds, the international development minister, has quit her post over Keir Starmer’s decision to slash the international aid budget to boost defence spending.
The senior Labour MP, who attended cabinet, warned that the UK pulling back from development would bolster Russia and encourage China’s attempts to rewrite global rules.
Dodds said she had made up her mind to quit the role on the day she learned about cuts, but had held off until after Starmer had returned from Washington.
It is with sadness that I have had to tender my resignation as Minister for International Development and for Women and Equalities.
— Anneliese Dodds (@AnnelieseDodds) February 28, 2025
While I disagree with the ODA decision, I continue to support the government and its determination to deliver the change our country needs. pic.twitter.com/44sCrX2p8z
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy to hold ‘urgent’ meeting over BBC Gaza documentary
11:57 , Holly EvansCulture Secretary Lisa Nandy is set to hold an “urgent meeting” with the chairman of the BBC after concerns were raised over a documentary aired by the broadcaster.
An internal review into Gaza: How To Survive A Warzone found that the programme’s child narrator is the son of Ayman Alyazouri, who has worked as Hamas’s deputy minister of agriculture.
The BBC said independent production company Hoyo Films, who made the documentary, told them the boy’s mother had been paid “a limited sum of money for the narration”.
In a statement Ms Nandy, who will meet with Dr Samir Shah today, said: “The BBC has acknowledged serious failings by them and the production company Hoyo Films.
“The public rightly holds the BBC to the highest standards of reporting and governance which is why I will be having an urgent meeting with the BBC chair later today.
“I want assurances that no stone will be left unturned by the fact-finding review now commissioned by the BBC’s director-general.
“This review must be comprehensive, rigorous and get to the bottom of exactly what has happened in this case.
“It is critical for trust in the BBC that this review happens quickly, and that appropriate action is taken on its findings.”
Victoria Starmer, Sir Keir's secret weapon
11:41 , Holly EvansWith just days to go before the UK general election last year, local candidates’ leaflets were dropping through letterboxes across the country. And where I live in Kentish Town, it was no different. Apart from, maybe, that our local MP Sir Keir Starmer was about to become the country’s next prime minister and I can see his house from mine.
It was pretty lively in the run up; what with a noisy week-long protest at the station over the Gaza conflict and piles of children’s shoes placed outside the Labour leader’s house (to remind him of the thousands that have been killed). I regularly spotted his security cavalcade if I was up early, whisking Sir Keir off to work.
But what most surprised me when I saw the Labour leaflet was the picture of Sir Keir with his wife, Lady Starmer. Or Vic, as she is better known by the Kentish Town mum mafia (who reckon she is “cool”, “a laugh”, “down to earth” and “one of us”).
Read about Sir Keir’s wife’s impact in his recent Washington trip here:
Who is Keir Starmer’s wife Victoria? As her neighbour, this is what I know...
Labour overtakes Reform after Starmer’s defence spending boost, latest poll reveals
11:25 , Holly EvansKeir Starmer’s gambit on defence spending appears to have received an instant reward after the latest tracker poll for The Independent saw Labour replace Reform UK at the top.
The survey by Techne UK saw Labour gain a point to 26 per cent and Nigel Farage’s party fall back one to 25 per cent. The Tories remained on 22 per cent, a total they have been stuck on for a month.
This week’s poll was taken in the aftermath of Sir Keir’s decision to cut overseas aid from 0.5 per cent of GDP to 0.3 per cent to bring defence spending up to 2.5 per cent of GDP.
While many charities and senior figures in his own party criticised him for undoing the legacy of Gordon Brown’s Labour government more than 15 years ago, the decision by Starmer appears to have given him a small boost with the public.
The poll was also a boost for the Lib Dems up one to 13 per cent and the Greens also up one to 8 per cent.
Crucially, Labour are now level pegging with Reform with voters aged 45 to 55, although Reform’s vote is being boosted by older voters. Labour dominates voters aged under 45 with around a third of the voters.
Let’s not get carried away with Starmer’s White House ‘love-in’ – he got zero on Ukraine
11:04 , Holly EvansAs he jets back to Britain after his trip to the White House, Sir Keir Starmer is entitled to breathe a sigh of relief. Fears that stiff Starmer would endure a repeat of Theresa May’s awkward hand holding incident with Trump when she visited the Oval Office in his first term proved unfounded.
The president was gushing in his praise for the prime minister, and went out of his way to salute the Anglo-US “special relationship” that some feared had sunk mid-Atlantic. Starmer, looking relaxed and more statesmanlike than usual, returned the compliment in kind.
Barring one or two characteristically eccentric moments, when Starmer’s heart must have been in his mouth, Trump did not pull one of his famous stunts, such as ostentatiously picking a piece of dandruff from Emmanuel Macron’s suit, as he did a few years ago.
Read the full analysis from Simon Walters here:
Let’s not get carried away with Starmer’s White House ‘love-in’
'Completely unacceptable' some nurses have not received pay rise, minister says
10:41 , Holly EvansWes Streeting said he is happy to work with the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) to make sure employers are giving the promised 6 per cent pay rise, after it was put to him that many nurses have not yet received it.
Asked about the issue on Good Morning Britain, the Health Secretary said: “The deal was agreed and was implemented for nurses.
“If nurses are not receiving that pay award, that is completely unacceptable in terms of the delivery of the pay award, and I’m happy to work with the Royal College of Nursing to look at which employers are not paying and make sure they do.”
Wes Streeting called out for old tweets showing he petitioned against Trump 2017 visit
10:28 , Holly EvansStarmer arrives back in Downing Street
10:22 , Holly EvansAfter a flying trip to Washington DC to see President Donald Trump, Sir Keir Starmer has now returned to Downing Street.
He took on overnight flight back to the UK and will now be preparing to host European leaders on Sunday for a summit on Ukraine and the continent’s security and defence.
Trump shuts down Independent reporter pressing Starmer on annexing Canada
10:08 , Holly Evans
Trump shuts down Independent reporter pressing Starmer on annexing Canada
Starmer’s warm-up act with Trump boosts Zelensky’s chances at Friday’s White House summit
09:50 , Holly EvansKeir Starmer didn’t barn storm the White House – he barn-owled his way into the Oval Office wisely giving the big bird confidence enough to spread his wings in welcome.
Sir Keir’s title has never mattered so much. He perched on a White House chair upholstered in gold and produced a letter embossed with the Royal crest from his breast pocket. It contained a letter of invitation for a second state visit to the United Kingdom, personally signed by King Charles II.
The royal moniker was painted with a thick black broad nib the 47th president would recognize.
Read the full article from world affairs editor Sam Kiley here:
Starmer lays the ground for warmer relations between Trump and Zelensky
People should 'start to see and feel improvement' with GP appointments
09:40 , Holly EvansWes Streeting said there will still be “challenges” in terms of the number of GPs and appointments versus demand, but people will “start to see and feel” an improvement with the new contract amendments.
He told LBC: “There’s still going to be challenges in terms of the number of GPs and the number of appointments that are available versus the number of people seeking demand. But I think people should start to see and feel that improvement over the course of this year.
“And we want to go from strength to strength year on year.”
Starmer pledges to review AI plans after musicians and artists warn they face being ripped off
09:33 , Holly EvansSir Keir Starmer has promised to listen to artists and musicians before pushing ahead with his new plans to unleash an artificial intelligence revolution on the British economy.
Pop legends Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney are among a large group of music artists raising serious concerns about the impact of AI on copyright, warning that it could leave creatives unable to make a living.
The two are responsible for some of the UK’s most enduring music, including “Yesterday”, “Hey Jude” and “Candle in the Wind”.
Read the full article here:
Starmer pledges to review AI plans in response to Paul McCartney and Elton John
Ending the 8am scramble for GP appointments ‘a big challenge’, Streeting says
09:22 , Holly EvansA new contract for GPs is a “breakthrough moment”, the Health Secretary has said, as he admitted ending the 8am scramble for appointments is a “big challenge”.
Wes Streeting said the new deal brings an end to the dispute GPs have had with the Government, which has seen them take “collective action” such as limiting the number of patients each doctor sees and stopping the “rationing” of referrals and investigations as requested by the NHS.
The new agreement for the 2025/26 financial year will see the total value of the GP contract grow by 7.2 per cent.
This includes money to cover rising costs, such as staff wages, repairs and maintenance of buildings and growing patient numbers.
Through cutting what the Government says are “box-ticking targets”, ministers say GPs will be freed “to take the first steps to end the 8am scramble for appointments”.
Asked on GB News how he was going to fix the 8am rush for appointments, Mr Streeting said: “It’s a big challenge, as with most things in the NHS, but the fact that we’ve just agreed a deal with GPs on their contract and on the reforms that will deliver the end to the 8am scramble, actually the first time a contract has been signed with GPs since the pandemic, so this is bringing an end to that dispute GPs have had with Government, an end to collective action.
“This is a breakthrough moment that’s going to deliver real results for patients, because with this reform, and with this contract, comes the reform that will deliver online access appointment booking for patients up and down the country to bring the NHS into the 21st century, along with all the other services we have at our fingertips at the touch of a button.”
People will 'of course' protest about Trump visit, minister says
09:09 , Holly EvansThere will “of course” be people protesting when Donald Trump comes for a state visit, a Cabinet minister has suggested.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting told BBC Breakfast that “protests are one of the amazing things about living in a democracy” and praised the special relationship between the UK and the US.
Following Sir Keir Starmer’s visit to Washington on Thursday, Mr Streeting said: “I thought that the meeting yesterday was a spectacular success both on the defence and security issues that President Trump and our Prime Minister were discussing but also on the enthusiasm President Trump showed for a deeper trading relationship.”
He said that “hard yards” are ahead on trade negotiations and added: “This historic state visit will be an important moment. Will there be people protecting or disagreeing? Of course there will.
“But I just say to people that those protests are one of the amazing things about living in a democracy. We’ve got the freedom to speak up, people protest against this Government as well.
When ‘Mr Charisma’ met ‘Mr Logic’: body language expert’s verdict on the Trump-Starmer meeting
08:53 , Holly EvansWhen Keir Starmer met Donald Trump in the White House for Thursday’s high-stakes meeting over the future of US-UK relations, the messaging each projected wasn’t confined to words alone.
From the power of the handshakes, to their tender gestures during the televised Oval Office chat, and the way each stood apart during the later White House press conference, the pair could not be more “mismatched”, according to body language expert Caroline Goyder.
“Trump is the silverback, totally relaxed, totally grounded, you know, on his home turf. And the difference, it couldn't be starker,” Ms Goyder told ITV on Thursday night after viewing footage of the US and UK leaders as they prepared to discuss advances in security and trade.
Read the full article here:
‘Mr Charisma’ and ‘Mr Logic’: the body language of Trump vs Starmer
Trump should be judged on 'what he does'
08:26 , Holly EvansDonald Trump should be judged on what he does “not simply on what he says”, a Cabinet minster has said.
Wes Streeting told Sky News that the US president will “slam his position down on the table” but will then work through issues.
The Health Secretary said: “President Trump is someone that needs to be judged on what he does, not simply on what he says.
“If I think about what he’s said in the past about Nato and European defence for example, he did it in a characteristically robust way, but the fundamental point he was making about Europe, including the UK, having to pay our way and pay our fair share for our continent’s own security was actually a fair challenge.
“He put it in his characteristically robust way – he’ll kind of slam his position down on the table to grab people’s attention and show he’s serious – but then he’ll work with people through the issues.”
Streeting says NHS 'not up for grabs' in any US trade deal
08:09 , Holly EvansThe NHS is “not on the table” in any US trade deal, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has said.
Speaking to Sky News after Sir Keir Starmer’s visit to Washington on Thursday, Mr Streeting said: “The NHS is not up for grabs and is not on the table in the context of trade.
“But there are a number of areas where we can and should work together to deepen the trading relationship between our two countries.”
Mr Streeting said he was “excited” by Donald Trump’s apparent enthusiasm for the trading relationship with the UK, but warned “hard yards” are ahead to get any deal completed.
“My friend the Business and Trade Secretary (Jonathan Reynolds) was keen to remind me and colleagues last night that the warmth and enthusiasm is the bit to get the ball rolling but the hard yards are still ahead.
“As we know about President Trump, he is a hard-headed businessman and he’s not a pushover and – as we heard from President Trump, so don’t take my word for it as a loyal Cabinet minister – our Prime Minister is a tough negotiator as well.
“So the hard yards on this are ahead but we do want to make progress. We want to do that quickly. We genuinely think there’s a lot in it for both the UK and the US and our collective economic security.”
US is the 'backstop and bedrock' of European security
07:58 , Holly EvansDonald Trump is right that a US presence in Ukraine as a result of a minerals deal would deter further attacks from Russia, a Cabinet minister has suggested.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting told Sky News that the US has been the “backstop as well as the bedrock” of European security since Nato was founded.
“I think there are two things here. One is that I think President Trump is right about the US’s interests and presence in Ukraine acting as a deterrent.
“And secondly the United States has always – since Nato was founded – it has always been the backstop as well as the bedrock of European defence and security for Britain, and for the continent as well because of the shared commitments that we have through the Nato alliance.”
Asked whether more than the minerals deal was needed for security in Ukraine, Mr Streeting added: “This is a fast-moving situation and we’ve been clear throughout we will back Ukraine to the hilt, and there can be no decision about Ukraine without Ukraine.
“That’s why President Zelensky’s visit today is going to be particularly important but I think we’ve seen real signs of progress in recent weeks.”
Streeting questioned on signing 2017 letter preventing Trump state visit
07:52 , Holly EvansWes Streeting said he is sure some people will disagree with Donald Trump making another state visit to the UK, but “in doing so, they are exercising the very freedom and democracy that we are committed to defending with President Trump”.
Asked on GB News if he was wrong in 2017 to sign – and urge other people to sign and share – a petition to prevent Donald Trump from making a state visit to the United Kingdom, the Health Secretary said: “Well, I definitely won’t be doing that this time.”
Mr Streeting said: “People I’m sure will disagree with it in some parts of the country, people may even exercise their right to voice their disagreement and protest, but people should not forget that in doing so they are exercising the very freedom and democracy that we are committed to defending with President Trump.
“So if people enjoy Britain’s freedom and democracy, as I think we do, we’ve got to make sure we defend it, and the relationship with the United States and the relationship with President Trump is absolutely critical to defending that freedom of speech, that right to take part in elections and democracy.
“The freedoms that we’ve taken for granted, to be honest, over many years now, it’s fragile, and we need to defend it, and that’s why the relationship between Keir Starmer and President Trump, between the United Kingdom and the United States is absolutely essential for Britain’s economic and national security.”
'Hard yards ahead' but meeting showed promise, Streeting says
07:46 , Holly EvansSpeaking on GB News, Wes Streeting said the meeting between Donald Trump and Sir Keir Starmer showed “warmth and enthusiasm”.
“The final thing, which certainly took took me by surprise, although I think there’s been lots of work on the part of my colleagues going on behind the scenes, was the warmth and enthusiasm that the president showed in terms of improving the trading relationship between our two countries.
“Now, look, warmth and friendship is really good and really encouraging.“My friend the Business and Trade Secretary (Jonathan Reynolds) would say the hard yards are still to come in trade negotiations – we know that President Trump is a tough negotiator; President Trump said yesterday our Prime Minister is a tough negotiator.
“So there are hard yards ahead but a great start to what is going to be an absolutely defining relationship between the president and our Prime Minister, because Britain and America, I mean, this is the most important alliance for our country, it is the bedrock on which our national security is built and Britain’s economic security is built as well. So a really important moment.”
Wes Streeting says Starmer was able to 'deliver' promises with Trump meeting
07:26 , Holly EvansSpeaking on Sky News, health secretary Wes Streeting said that Sir Keir Starmer had “delivered” what he promised during his meeting with Donald Trump.
Asked about the meeting, he said: “What is delivering at home, this is also a prime minister delivering abroad.”
He added that the meeting had been “crucial” for both UK national interests, Ukraine and the collective defence of Europe, saying: “What we saw was the prime minister deliver what he said he would.
“We could see the strength of the personal relationship he has built with President Trump which is absolutely crucial.”
He added that the conversations regarding a Ukraine peace deal had shown “really encouraging signs of progress”.
Starmer refers to exchange with JD Vance over free speech concerns
07:15 , Maroosha MuzaffarStarmer’s Ukraine diplomacy continues after Trump White House trip
07:12 , Holly EvansSir Keir Starmer will welcome Volodymyr Zelensky to Downing Street this weekend as he follows up his visit to see Donald Trump with efforts to bridge the gap between the US and Europe over a potential deal to end the Ukraine war.
Leaders from across Europe will gather in London on Sunday, following a week which will have seen Sir Keir, France’s Emmanuel Macron and the Ukrainian president travel for talks with Mr Trump.
The US President continues to resist calls to fully commit American military might to guarantee any Ukraine peace deal, but he has suggested closer economic ties and an agreement on mineral access between Kyiv and Washington would effectively act as a security “backstop”.
Sir Keir returned to the UK following a trip to the White House which went as well as No 10 could have hoped, with Mr Trump clearly pleased with the King’s invitation for an unprecedented second state visit, giving an indication that he would not block the Chagos Islands deal and suggesting a trade deal could spare British exports from US tariffs.
Sunday’s intensive diplomatic activity will see Mr Zelensky and Italy’s Giorgia Meloni separately visit No 10, the Prime Minister chair a call with the Baltic countries – Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia – before hosting the summit of European leaders.
Mr Zelensky, Mr Macron and Ms Meloni have been invited to the summit along with leaders from Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Turkey, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic and Romania, as well as the Nato secretary general and the presidents of the European Commission and European Council.
Watch: Starmer clashes with JD Vance over attack on free speech
07:00 , Jane Dalton
Starmer clashes with Vance over vice president’s attack on Europe’s free speech
Starmer backs two-state solution amid backlash over Trump’s Gaza proposal
06:30 , Maroosha MuzaffarBritish prime minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed his support for a two-state solution, calling it “ultimately the only way for a lasting peace in the region”.
He was responding to the question about Donald Trump’s widely condemned proposal for a US takeover of Gaza and the permanent displacement of Palestinians.
Israel’s military assault on Gaza has killed more than 48,000 Palestinians since October 2023, according to Gaza’s health ministry, and has led to accusations of genocide and war crimes, which Israel denies.
Starmer sees value in Trump’s mineral deal with Ukraine after meeting with US president
06:07 , Maroosha MuzaffarBritish prime minister Keir Starmer said he saw “validity” in Donald Trump’s argument for pursuing a mineral deal with Ukraine on the eve of president Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to Washington to finalise it.
Sir Keir claimed that the US president’s deal for highly valuable rare earth minerals would form “at least one element” of a security guarantee for Kyiv against Russia.
The prime minister used his Washington visit to push Mr Trump to provide security protections for Ukraine and not abandon it as America attempted to find a quick end to the war.
“I can see the value in the approach in relation to minerals,” he said in an interview to NBC on Thursday, shortly after addressing a press conference with Mr Trump.
“That is a matter between President Trump and President Zelenskyy. But I can see very clearly the argument that President Trump makes in relation to minerals, and I can also see the validity of his points when he says that if there’s a deal on minerals then the US has economic interests in Ukraine, which, if you like, form at least one element of any security guarantee.”
Read the full story here:
Starmer sees value in Trump’s mineral deal with Ukraine after meeting US president
Starmer acknowledges 'value' in Trump's push for Ukrainian mineral rights deal
06:00 , Maroosha MuzaffarBritish prime minister Keir Starmer acknowledged the “value” in president Donald Trump’s proposal for Ukraine to repay some of the $500b in US military aid through mineral rights.
In an interview with NBC News after meeting Trump, Starmer noted that economic ties between the US and Ukraine could be seen as a form of security.
“I can see the value in the approach in relation to minerals,” Starmer said in the interview.
“That’s a matter between President Trump and President [Volodymyr] Zelensky. But I can see very clearly the argument that President Trump makes in relation to minerals, and I can also see the validity of his points when he says that if there is a deal on minerals then the US has economic interests in Ukraine, which, if you like, form at least one element of any security guarantee.”
He added: “That, in its own right, is an important aspect.”
While Trump has pushed for a resolution to the war and compensation for aid, he has avoided committing to security guarantees, instead urging Europe to take the lead.
PM says talks on peace deal security guarantee 'productive'
05:30 , Jane DaltonThe Prime Minister said he and Mr Trump had a "very productive discussion" about a US security guarantee for a Ukrainian peace deal. Asked whether he felt satisfied about the so-called backstop after discussions with Mr Trump, he said: "I thought we had a very productive discussion.
"Obviously, as the president says, the deal has to come first.
“But, yes, our teams are going to be talking about how we make sure that deals sticks, is lasting, and enforced. So, our teams will be talking about that."
Mr Trump said the US was working towards a "very achievable ceasefire" in Ukraine.
Sir Keir corrected the president when he claimed Europe but not the US was getting back some of the cash it has provided to Ukraine.
Prime Minister says UK guards free speech ‘preciously’ after Vance criticism
05:00 , Maroosha MuzaffarSir Keir Starmer has said the UK guards free speech “preciously” and denied that the Online Safety Act was a form of censorship.
The Prime Minister made the comments after an earlier exchange with Vice President JD Vance on Thursday, in which he reaffirmed the UK’s long history of freedom of expression.
Speaking to Fox News, Sir Keir said: “We actually had some exchanges today about things like freedom of speech. We got on very well, by the way.
“We had a really good discussion over lunch and I made clear we’ve had freedom of speech in the United Kingdom for a very very long time and we guard it preciously.”
Asked if the UK’s Online Safety Act meant it was trying to censor speech, Sir Keir responded: “No we don’t believe in censoring speech, but of course we do need to deal with terrorism. We need to deal with paedophiles and issues like that.
Read the full story here:
Prime Minister says UK guards free speech ‘preciously’ after Vance criticism
Keir Starmer’s wins and losses during crunch White House summit with Donald Trump
04:30 , Maroosha MuzaffarMeeting between the Labour prime minister and US president touched on Ukraine, tariffs, trade deals, the Chagos Islands, Nato and a historic state visit invitation from King Charles:
Keir Starmer’s wins and losses during crunch White House summit with Donald Trump
In pictures: Starmer meets Trump
04:02 , Jane Dalton
Trump gushes at invite from the King of Canada as Starmer charms president in the Oval Office
03:30 , Maroosha MuzaffarThe British prime minister is not known for his charm, but he brought a secret weapon with him to disarm Trump, writes Richard Hall:
Trump gushes at invite from the King of Canada as Starmer charms president
When ‘Mr Charisma’ met ‘Mr Logic’: body language expert’s verdict on the Trump-Starmer meeting
02:55 , Maroosha MuzaffarWhen Keir Starmer met Donald Trump in the White House for Thursday’s high-stakes meeting over the future of US-UK relations, the messaging each projected wasn’t confined to words alone.
From the power of the handshakes, to their tender gestures during the televised Oval Office chat, and the way each stood apart during the later White House press conference, the pair could not be more “mismatched”, according to body language expert Caroline Goyder.
“Trump is the silverback, totally relaxed, totally grounded, you know, on his home turf. And the difference, it couldn't be starker,” Ms Goyder told ITV on Thursday night after viewing footage of the US and UK leaders as they prepared to discuss advances in security and trade.
“Whatever you think about Donald Trump, he is Mr Charisma with Mr Logic... Mr Legal. And so it's amazing, It's like Mars and Venus.”
Read the full story here:
‘Mr Charisma’ and ‘Mr Logic’: the body language of Trump vs Starmer
Opinion: Why Starmer is so wrong on foreign aid
02:45 , Jane DaltonThe choice to cut foreign aid is egregious on so many levels, writes MP Andrew Mitchell:
Andrew Mitchell: Cynical and disingenuous: Why Starmer is so wrong on foreign aid
Watch: Trump and Starmer’s first words to each other
01:20 , Jane Dalton
Trump and Starmer’s first words to each other before crunch Ukraine talks
European nations must do more on defence, says PM
00:15 , Jane DaltonSir Keir Starmer has confirmed he will meet leaders of 18 countries on Sunday to discuss the Ukraine war and stressed the importance of European countries doing more "in the defence and security of Europe".
Asked whether he had been in discussions with other European countries about the peacekeeping deal and whether any Commonwealth countries may join, Sir Keir said: "Yes, I've spoken to a number of countries, particularly in the last few weeks.
"We had a meeting in Paris last week. I've got a meeting on Sunday with 18 countries to further our discussions.
"Obviously we've been talking quite intensely to our French colleagues and to Nato, but to other countries as well, because, as I say, I think it's important for European countries including the United Kingdom to step up and do more in the defence and security of Europe and our continent and the United Kingdom, and we will do so."
UK and US agree to 'move forward' on new economic deal involving tech and AI, Starmer says
Thursday 27 February 2025 23:29 , Angus ThompsonOne of the key takeaways from the meeting between Keir Starmer and Donald Trump was the potential for a trade agreement to be struck between both nations.
Trade has been a cause of major anxiety for the UK coming into the meeting after Trump announced tariffs on Canada, Mexico, China, and the EU.
Trump praised Starmer’s negotiating skills and hinted both nations could avoid a deal without tariffs.
Here’s what Sir Keir had to tell Fox News: “Well, I think that the trading relationship between the US and UK is very good trading relationship.
“We've got billions invested in each other's economies, and it's fair and it's balanced. There's a surplus actually in favor of the US, so we're in a different position to perhaps others.
“And what we've agreed today is to move forward to a new economic deal, and our teams are now starting to work on that, particularly on things like tech and AI.”
Starmer quizzed over King's reaction to Trump's proposed annexation of Canada
Thursday 27 February 2025 23:22 , Angus ThompsonSir Keir was asked what he believed the King thought about Trump’s desire to pull Canada into the United States, as the Monarch is the head of state in the Commonwealth country.
The prime minister declined to answer, saying it was not for him to speak on the King’s behalf regarding world affairs.
“His Majesty obviously will express himself in his own way, but it's not for me to express his views,” he said.
However, he went on to celebrate the invitation from King Charles for Trump to visit the UK.
“This is a very special invitation, because it's an invitation to the president from His Majesty the King for a second state visit. That's unprecedented. That's not happened before. That is history in the making, and I'm very pleased to be able to go back to His Majesty and tell him that President Trump has agreed,” he said.
PM flatters president but awkward 'free speech' moment
Thursday 27 February 2025 23:20 , Jane DaltonStarmer plays royal Trump card in critical White House summit
Starmer refers to exchange with JD Vance over free speech concerns
Thursday 27 February 2025 23:15 , Angus ThompsonThe interview has largely centred on the Ukraine war, however the prime minister was asked about vice president JD Vance’s comments during the recent Munich security conference, in which he warned European societies were infringing on free speech.
Sir Keir laughed as he recounted the exchange he and Mr Vance had during the Oval Office meeting earlier, in which he corrected the vice president over the UK’s record on free speech.
“Well, we actually had some exchanges today about things like freedom of speech,” he said during the interview.
“We got very well, by the way, we had a really good discussion over lunch, and I made clear we have had freedom of speech in the United Kingdom for a very, very long time and we guard it preciously,” Sir Keir said.
Starmer speaks to Fox News after Trump White House meeting
Thursday 27 February 2025 23:07 , Angus ThompsonKeir Starmer is now holding an interview with Fox News anchor Bret Baier.
Sir Keir said the main message he was aiming to push while meeting with US president Donald Trump was the continuation of the “special relationship” between the UK and United States.
“It's such a deep relationship covering defense, security, intelligence, trade. For years, we've been the closest of allies, and there's a shared determination the president and I to take that forward to another level, and that's why coming out today, our teams are going to be working on trade and working on security measures, particularly in relation to Ukraine,” he said.
Sketch: Trump gushes at invitation from 'King of Canada'
Thursday 27 February 2025 23:00 , Jane DaltonTrump gushes at invite from the King of Canada as Starmer charms president
Watch: Starmer and Trump’s joint press conference in full
Thursday 27 February 2025 22:40 , Jane Dalton
Watch Starmer and Trump’s joint press conference in full after crunch Ukraine talks
AI could cure cancer, Starmer claims
Thursday 27 February 2025 22:07 , Jane DaltonThe prime minister announced the UK and US would work on a deal on artificial intelligence, hailing the prospect of its curing cancer.
He said: “We're the only two Western countries with trillion-dollar tech sectors leaders in AI. And look, we take a similar approach on this issue.
“Instead of over-regulating these new technologies, we're seizing the opportunities that they offer.
“So we've decided today to go further, to bring work on a new economic deal with advanced technology at its core.
“Look our two nations together shaped the great technological innovations of the last century, we have a chance now to do the same for the 21st century.
“I mean, artificial intelligence could cure cancer. That could be a moonshot for our age.”
Don't reward Russia, Starmer warns Trump
Thursday 27 February 2025 21:42 , Jane DaltonSir Keir Starmer applauded the US president’s push to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but said that "it can't be peace that rewards the aggressor".
"History must be on the side of the peacemaker, not the invader," Starmer told reporters, with Trump by his side.
Watch: Trump wrongly suggests Ireland is part of UK
Thursday 27 February 2025 21:19 , Jane DaltonStarmer clashes with Vance over vice president’s attack on Europe’s free speech
UK and US working on deals on war and trade, says Trump
Thursday 27 February 2025 21:15 , Jane DaltonThe UK and US will work towards two deals – on ending the war and striking a trade agreement, Donald Trump said.
Asked whether he believed Vladimir Putin was a man who would keep his word if there is a peace deal, Sir Keir Starmer replied: "I think my views on Putin are pretty well-rehearsed and pretty well-known, and my concern is that if there's a deal – and I hope there is a deal – that it must be a lasting deal, that it's not a temporary measure.
"That is why I think it's really important that Putin knows that this deal, a historic deal which I very much hope comes about, is there and it's a lasting deal, and that we're able to deal with any inclination he has to go again or go further."
Mr Trump said: "I think we'll have two deals. I think we'll have a deal on ending the war and I think we're going to end up with a great trade deal with you."
Trump says 'terrific' trade deal with UK likely
Thursday 27 February 2025 21:08 , Jane DaltonDonald Trump has raised hopes of a trade deal without tariffs between the UK and US.
Asked whether Sir Keir had persuaded him not to impose tariffs, unlike on the rest of Europe, the president replies: “He was working hard. I'll tell you that.
“He earned whatever the hell they pay him over there.
“But he tried... I think there's a very good chance that in the case of these two great friendly countries, I think we could very well end up with a real trade deal where the tariffs wouldn't be necessary. We'll see.
“But ... today he was working hard at lunch. And and I'm very receptive to it.
“I think we, in all fairness, in all seriousness, I think we have a very good chance at arriving in a very good deal. JD and Scott and Howard, all the people are working on it.
“And I think we have a good chance at arriving in a deal that could be terrific, really terrific for both countries.”
Trump heaps praise on Starmer's 'beautiful' accent
Thursday 27 February 2025 20:51 , Natalie CrockettSir Keir Starmer said he was "delighted" he could go back to the King to say US President Donald Trump had accepted his invitation for a second state visit.
After Sir Keir Starmer finished speaking, Mr Trump said: "What a beautiful accent.
"I would have been president 20 years ago if I had that accent."
Trade relationship fair and balanced, says Starmer
Thursday 27 February 2025 20:43 , Jane DaltonSir Keir Starmer hinted the US must not impose trade tariffs.
“We have a $1.5 trillion invested in each other's economies, creating over 2.5 million jobs across both economies. Our trading relationship is not just strong, it's fair, balanced and reciprocal,” he told the US president.
Our relationship matters more than ever, Starmer tells Trump
Thursday 27 February 2025 20:42 , Jane DaltonThe prime minister has reminded Mr Trump of how the UK and US worked together in the Second World War.
“In a moment of real danger around the world, the relationship, this relationship matters more than ever,” he said.
“We remain each other's first partner in defence ready to come to the other's aid to counter threats wherever and whenever they may arise.
“No two militaries are more intertwined than ours. No two countries have done more together to keep people safe.
“And in a few weeks, we mark VE Day, the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe. Britain and America fought side by side to make that happen, one of the greatest moments in our history. We stand side by side still today, and we're focused now on bringing an enduring end of our direct war in Ukraine.”
Trump ramps up pressure for higher defence spending
Thursday 27 February 2025 20:38 , Jane DaltonThe disaster in Ukraine shows why it's so important for the United Kingdom and other Nato partners to put up to 4% or 5% of GDP into defence, Mr Trump said.
“I know that they're raising it. I just read an article, a great article, about the work you're doing in the UK, as to the military, you're raising it quite a bit, which is a great thing to do for your country, great thing to do,” he said.
“It's sad that we need that, but probably need that. So congratulations on that. I know you got it through. After years of chronic underfunding there's an urgent need to catch up for some countries. I want to thank the Prime Minister, once again, for travelling here today.”
Trump says he is working to end Ukraine's 'spiral of death'
Thursday 27 February 2025 20:35 , Jane DaltonPresident Trump said he had been working to begin the process of ending “the spiral of death” in Ukraine, which would either be fairly soon or “not at all”.
Much of the European aid to Ukraine has been sent in the form of loans for which they expect to be paid back, Mr Trump claimed. “And we didn't have that honor under the Biden administration.”
Trump praises 'tough negotiator' Starmer
Thursday 27 February 2025 20:30 , Jane DaltonDonald Trump praised Sir Keir but said he was a tough negotiator.
He pledged to keep the relationship between the two countries very strong.
The press conference is beginning.
A press conference with Donald Trump and Sir Keir Starmer is due to begin very shortly. Journalists from around the world have crowded into the room at the White House.
Starmer defends UK's free speech after Vance attack
Thursday 27 February 2025 20:17 , Jane DaltonSir Keir Starmer has said he is "very proud" of free speech in the UK following criticism from US Vice-President JD Vance.
Mr Vance said during a speech at the Munich Security Conference earlier this month that European governments, including the UK's, had retreated from their values and ignored voter concerns on migration and free speech.
Sitting alongside the Prime Minister and Donald Trump, Mr Vance responded to a question about these remarks: "Look, I said what I said, which is that we do have, of course, a special relationship with our friends in the UK, and also some of our European allies.
"But we also know that there have been infringements on free speech that actually affect not just the British - of course what the British do in their own country is up to them - but also affect American technology companies and, by extension, American citizens, so that is something that we'll talk about today at lunch."
Sir Keir responded: "Well, we've had free speech for a very, very long time in the United Kingdom and it will last for a very, very long time.
"Certainly, we wouldn't want to reach across US citizens, and we don't, and that's absolutely right, but in relation to free speech in the UK I'm very proud of our history there."
Watch live: Starmer and Trump hold joint press conference
Thursday 27 February 2025 20:13 , Jane DaltonWatch live: Starmer and Trump hold joint press conference after crunch Ukraine talks
Trump dodges Starmer plea for Ukraine security guarantees
Thursday 27 February 2025 19:59 , Jane DaltonDonald Trump said a minerals deal with Ukraine was the security guarantee Kyiv needs against Russia, brushing aside a plea from Prime Minister Keir Starmer for a commitment of more US military support.
Sir Keir had turned on the charm, saying peace in Ukraine had only become possible because of Mr Trump.
Before the meeting, the prime minister had argued that there could be no long-term peace in Ukraine without firm US security guarantees - an argument Trump all but dismissed.
"We are a backstop because we'll be over there, we'll be working," as a result of the economic partnership, Trump said. "We're going to have a lot of people over there."
Watch: Trump praises The Independent
Thursday 27 February 2025 19:56 , Jane DaltonUS businesses in Ukraine would be backstop, says Trump
Thursday 27 February 2025 19:50 , Jane DaltonDonald Trump has suggested the presence of US businesses in Ukraine under a deal with Volodymyr Zelensky would act as an effective "backstop" against another Russian invasion if a ceasefire is agreed.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has already said he is prepared to deploy British troops in a force to safeguard any peace deal, but only if the US offers security guarantees to European soldiers.
Asked whether he could see a situation where US forces could be deployed as a backstop, the US president said: "Well, there is a backstop. First, you have European countries, because they're right there, we're very far away, we have an ocean between us.
"But we want to make sure it works. So, I don't know when you say backstop you mean a backstop psychologically, militarily or what.
"We are a backstop because we'll be over there, we'll be working in the country. That's a great thing economically for them because when you talk about economic development we're going to have a lot of people over there.”
Asked if the US would aid British peacekeepers if they were attacked by Russia, Mr Trump said: "I've always found about the British. They don't need much help ... they can take care of themselves ... it sounds like it's evasive but it's not evasive.”
Starmer corrects Trump on claim Europe would recoup cash from Ukraine
Thursday 27 February 2025 19:43 , Natalie CrockettSir Keir Starmer corrected Donald Trump when the President claimed Europe but not the US was getting back some of the cash it has provided to Ukraine.
Mr Trump was asked by reporters what message he would send to Volodymyr Zelensky to assure him Ukraine's sovereignty would not be at threat.
The President replied: "He's coming, perhaps he's already on his way, and we're going to be signing the deal together, probably in front of the media, and we're going to be having a good conversation. No, we want to work with him, President Zelensky."
Mr Trump said he had a "very good relationship" with the Ukrainian leader, adding: "It maybe got a little bit testy because we wanted to have a little bit of what the European nations had. You know, they they get their money back by giving money, we don't get the money back. Biden made a deal. He put in 350 billion dollars and I thought it was a very unfair situation."
Sir Keir intervened to say: "We're not getting all of ours. I mean, quite a bit of ours was gifted. It was given. There were some loans, but mainly it was gifted actually."
It comes after French President Emmanuel Macron corrected Mr Trump on the same point during his visit to Washington earlier this week.
Starmer urged to challenge Trump on Andrew Tate travel ban 'lifting'
Thursday 27 February 2025 19:37 , Jane Dalton
Starmer urged to challenge Trump on ‘US pressure’ over Andrew Tate travel ban
Starmer and Trump White House press conference delayed
Thursday 27 February 2025 19:35A press conference between Starmer and Trump had been due to begin at 7pm GMT but appears to be running behind.
We understand it’s due to begin shortly. We’ll bring you the latest updates as we get them.
UK-US bond 'greatest for security in world ever', says Starmer
Thursday 27 February 2025 19:33 , Jane DaltonSir Keir Starmer said the alliance between the US and the UK was "the greatest alliance for prosperity and security ... the world has ever seen".
President Donald Trump said to the prime minister: "You have done very well over the years, haven't you?"
Sir Keir replied: "We have, I'm very proud of our country - but we've also always been there backing each other up.
"That is why this is the greatest alliance for prosperity and security, I think, the world has ever seen.
"Whenever necessary, we've absolutely backed each other up."
Mr Trump then asked: "Could you take on Russia by yourselves?"
Sir Keir smiled and said: "Well..."
