Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, is facing a delicate balancing act as he prepares for his upcoming meeting with President Donald Trump. He must demonstrate unwavering support for Ukraine while also fostering positive relations with the U.S., London’s key ally.
But the tense international atmosphere is not the only hurdle Starmer is facing following his waning approval ratings at home.
In a significant political shift in July 2024, the Labour Party, led by Starmer, ousted the Conservative Party, which had been in power for 14 years. However, since his election, Starmer has experienced a notable decline in his approval ratings, according to reports.
Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer addresses members at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool, England on Tuesday. (AP)
Reference was made to the productive meeting between President Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, suggesting a potential blueprint for Starmer’s upcoming discussions.
“I think there would be a path to great popularity if he’s able to shape President Trump’s thinking on certain subjects,” Mendoza said.
Starmer’s ability to make inroads with Trump could have immediate implications as issues that directly impact Brits’ pockets are expected to be top agenda items — including the looming U.S. tariffs on U.K. steel.
The British embassy confirmed to Fox News Digital that while topics involving U.S.-U.K. defense alliances and support for Ukraine are expected to be addressed, topics involving shared economic and trade-based partnerships will also be prioritized.
Howard Lutnick, chief executive officer of Cantor Fitzgerald LP and US commerce secretary nominee for US President Donald Trump, right, and President Donald Trump during an executive order signing in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Monday, Feb. 10, 2025. (Getty)
Trump’s threat to slap 25% tariffs on U.K. and EU imports is a topic Britain hopes it is uniquely positioned to address given its “very specialized” trading position on steel and aluminum, U.K. secretary for business and trade, Jonathan Reynolds, told the BBC this month.
A British embassy spokesperson said Starmer will look to highlight the economic “synergies” shared between the U.K. and U.S. when it comes to tech, AI, trade and investments.
“That’s going to be a big priority,” spokesman Ed Roman said.
