Calls are mounting to shelve Donald Trump’s UK state visit after his heated White House clash with President Zelensky.
During the meeting, Trump and VP JD Vance accused Zelensky of “gambling with World War Three.” This came just hours after Sir Keir Starmer invited Trump for a second state visit on behalf of King Charles.
Politicians and military leaders urge delaying the visit until Trump assures support for Ukraine, fearing embarrassment for the monarchy. However, a Trump insider warned rescinding the invite would be “very unwise.”
Meanwhile, Zelensky met with UK leaders, reaffirming Ukraine’s fight for survival, while Trump ally Nigel Farage called the White House spat “regrettable.”
King Charles, who met Zelensky in 2023, has voiced strong support for Ukraine amid Russia’s aggression.
During an Oval Office clash, Trump reportedly pressured Zelensky to accept a deal with Russia, accusing him of ingratitude before ordering him to leave.
After receiving a UK state visit invitation, Trump called it an “honor” and praised Charles. However, Alicia Kearns criticized the visit, arguing it should be reserved for loyal allies and condemning Trump’s treatment of Zelensky. A Trump source warned rescinding the invite could damage US-UK relations.
Officials suggest Sir Keir Starmer should urge President Zelensky to apologize to Donald Trump to ease tensions.
Despite past denials, Trump may address both Houses of Parliament during his UK visit. However, an MP predicts a “sea of empty seats” in protest.
No date is set for the visit, with concerns over US-UK relations on Ukraine. Former Defence Minister Tobias Ellwood warns hosting Trump could be problematic if US policy shifts toward Russia.
Ex-MI6 head Richard Dearlove suggests delaying the visit to “let the dust settle,” while royal insiders propose stalling until relations stabilize.
Former Tory leader Michael Howard admitted a visit would be tough for the King but argued it could help influence a difficult administration. Labour peer George Foulkes, however, called for postponement, citing Trump’s “outrageous behavior.”
Ex-Army commander Hamish de Bretton-Gordon slammed Trump and Vance’s stance on Putin, saying the King wouldn’t want to host someone “on the side of evil.” Meanwhile, constitutional expert Sir Vernon Bogdanor warned canceling would harm UK interests.
Despite controversy, No.10 confirmed the visit will proceed, emphasizing unity between US and European allies.