A Calculated Display
US President Donald Trump’s second state visit to the United Kingdom ended without a bang. That is exactly what the hosts wanted.
Formally royal occasions, state visits still carry political weight. London’s goals with this one were threefold: highlight the US-UK “special relationship”, deepen bilateral trade ties, and downplay differences. Above all, it was about showcasing historic bonds while avoiding off-the-cuff remarks from Trump on domestic UK politics.
By those measures, the visit was a success. Trump remains the only elected leader to receive two state visits, and his rapport with King Charles III appeared cordial. Politically, the headline was £150 billion investment, most notably in Britain’s tech sector, but there was also stated agreement to strengthen nuclear cooperation. Key differences—over Palestine, the government’s handling of irregular crossings over the English Channel, and how to deal with Russia—were largely kept in the background. If the UK government was disappointed not to secure reduced tariffs on steel exports, it did not show.
Even extending the invitation carried risk. Trump’s approval among Britons stands at just 16% (compared to 61% for Zelenskyy), and most oppose Washington’s handling of the wars in Ukraine and Gaza. Many are also worried about developments in the United States, including increased polarization and attacks on political opposition and the judiciary, and the potential for more meddling in UK politics. Just last week, Elon Musk spoke (virtually) at a far-right rally in London, which saw 110,000 people take to the streets.
At the same time, the US-UK relationship is too significant to ignore with its deep intelligence ties, strongly integrated militaries, and significant trade links. While the EU is Britain’s top trading partner (£358 billion in 2024), the United States was Britain’s second export destination (£196.3 billion in 2024). Washington also continues to play a vital role in European security by providing an extended nuclear shield and key capabilities, such as intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, and strategic enablers, such as air-to-air refuelling, which Europeans cannot yet replicate. Keeping the United States on board remains key.
For British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the stakes were also domestic. With far-right Reform UK party leader Nigel Farage, Trump’s friend, surging in the polls, Starmer needed to prove he could manage Washington alone. His careful diplomacy—from repairing EU relations to handling Trump—has won credit. Crucially, the announcement of more US-UK investment avoided jeopardizing ongoing talks with Brussels, where progress depends on Britain’s not lowering standards to suit Washington.
Yet the prime minister position at home is fragile. His Labour Party faces criticism for lacking clear direction on irregular migration and the economy. His choice of Lord Peter Mandelson as US ambassador collapsed amid renewed scrutiny of the emissary’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Starmer made changes to his cabinet and staff in early September, but local elections in May 2026 will be the first real test of his authority. A bad result could easily trigger demands for his departure and a leadership contest.
State visits may be ceremonial, but they are inherently political. Keeping Trump close and differences quiet was a diplomatic win for Britain. But differences will return, putting all the bonhomie to another test.