Donald Trump contrasts King Charles with Keir Starmer in blunt swipe: ‘He’s a much different person’

Dorothy Reddin
Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:27:13 +0000

Donald Trump has admitted he does not know whether the state visit by King Charles will help to improve his relationship with Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

In a candid confession, the US President said: "I can't give you an answer to that.

"I can tell you one thing, our relationship is very good, but you know, that's another individual. We'll find out.

"But I like Keir Starmer very much, but I think he's made a tragic mistake on immigration and a tragic mistake on energy."

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Mr Trump made the comments immediately after he bid farewell to the King and Queen Camilla at the White House.

"He just left, he's a fantastic guy," the president continued to tell Sky News.

Referring to his speech in Congress on Tuesday, Mr Trump said: "I thought he was fantastic. It was a brilliant speech.

"It was delivered beautifully, with that beautiful accent that he's got.

"And everybody… he got a standing ovation. And I thought it was fantastic in all respects."

Despite praising Their Majesties, the US President continued to criticise the British Government's position on immigration and energy policy.

Referring to King Charles, Mr Trump said: "He's a much different person than your Prime Minister.

"Your Prime Minister has to learn to deal the way he deals, and he'll do a lot better."

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When posing for photographs before entering the White House, Mr Trump told reporters: “The greatest King, in my book. We need more people like that in our country.”

In the Diplomatic Reception Room, King Charles and Queen Camilla posed for another photograph with Donald and Melania Trump and exchanged thoughts about the trip.

The King shook Mr Trump’s hand and kissed Mrs Trump on the cheek before leaving in a car with the Queen.

“Enjoy Virginia,” one bystander shouted, to which the Queen replied: “Thank you.”

Later on Thursday, Their Majesties received a military guard of honour at Arlington Cemetery.

US troops carried a Union Flag, and a military band played both the UK and US national anthems.

US officials greeted the King and Queen before laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.