Think tank urges London to forge align with Trump’s transactional foreign policy

As President Donald Trump continues to reshape American foreign policy with a focus on hard-nosed deals and national self-interest, a new report warns that the UK must adapt its strategy to maintain its “special relationship” with the United States. The report, authored by Darren Spinck of the Henry Jackson Society, emphasizes that the traditional approach to the U.S.-UK alliance can no longer be taken for granted in the Trump era.

Spinck suggests that the UK must align with Trump’s “transactional” approach to foreign policy in order to remain a key ally. One potential step is for Prime Minister Keir Starmer to refrain from retaliating against Trump’s steel and aluminum tariffs as a way to facilitate bilateral negotiations. Additionally, the report proposes deeper security cooperation and a tougher stance on China as ways to strengthen ties with the United States.

Another avenue for the UK to explore is seeking accession to the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to enhance economic relations with the U.S. The report also cautions against deepening economic ties with China, as this could strain relations with the Trump administration.

Spinck highlights the divergence between the Trump administration’s focus on bilateralism and economic nationalism and the Starmer government’s preference for multilateral diplomacy and progressive trade policies. This policy gap could weaken transatlantic cohesion and hinder collective action against common adversaries, particularly China.

The report calls on the British government to address White House concerns regarding digital privacy and to establish a mineral mining partnership to bolster critical supply chains. It also raises concerns about the UK’s growing economic relationship with China, which could complicate the “Special Relationship” with the U.S.

In conclusion, Spinck emphasizes the need for the UK to set aside disagreements over U.S. domestic policy and focus on security cooperation. By adopting a more transactional model of foreign policy cooperation, the UK can strengthen its alliance with the U.S. and ensure alignment on critical issues such as Iran policy. Through concerted efforts to bridge policy gaps and prioritize mutual interests, the UK can secure its position as a key ally in the Trump administration’s foreign policy agenda.