UK’s Starmer takes on Trump amid low approval ratings at home

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing a delicate balancing act as he prepares for his meeting with President Donald Trump on Thursday. With tensions high on the international stage, Starmer must navigate support for Ukraine while also maintaining strong relations with the U.S., London’s chief ally.

However, it’s not just the geopolitical landscape that Starmer is contending with. The Prime Minister’s approval ratings have taken a significant hit since he was elected in July 2024, following the end of the Conservative Party’s 14-year reign. Controversial decisions on issues such as axing a winter fuel repayment program and policy reversals on political donations have contributed to Starmer’s declining popularity.

Colin Brazier, a veteran journalist and observer of the U.K.’s culture wars, believes that Starmer’s approval ratings have plummeted due to new taxes and challenges posed by increased immigration. Despite these challenges, Starmer must show statesmanship and navigate a meeting with President Trump to bolster his leadership.

Foreign policy expert Alan Mendoza sees the meeting as an opportunity for Starmer to score points at home while also strengthening diplomatic ties. While President Trump is unpopular in Britain, Mendoza believes that the British government must prioritize governing over public opinion. Starmer must position Britain favorably in the eyes of the President, regardless of his personal unpopularity.

Mendoza points to the successful meeting between Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron as a model for Starmer’s discussions. By shaping President Trump’s thinking on key issues, Starmer could potentially boost his popularity. The meeting is expected to address crucial topics such as U.S.-U.K. defense alliances, support for Ukraine, and looming U.S. tariffs on U.K. steel.

The British embassy confirmed that economic and trade-based partnerships will be a top priority for the meeting. With Trump threatening tariffs on U.K. and EU imports, Starmer hopes to leverage Britain’s unique trading position on steel and aluminum to address this issue. Additionally, the Prime Minister will highlight the economic synergies between the U.K. and U.S. in areas such as tech, AI, trade, and investments.

Overall, Starmer faces a challenging task ahead of his meeting with President Trump. By navigating the geopolitical tightrope, addressing key economic issues, and strengthening diplomatic ties, the Prime Minister aims to bolster his leadership and secure vital partnerships for the U.K.’s future.