Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, has fired a stern warning about the incoming Trump presidency, declaring Donald Trump “a threat to peace and prosperity” both in the UK and worldwide.
A New Approach to Transatlantic Relations
Davey argues that Britain can’t simply turn its back on the former US president. Instead, he wants the government to hammer out a robust deal with the EU, partly by rejoining a customs union, so that the UK can face Trump’s administration from a position of strength.
“We have something Trump desperately wants: a state visit… a banquet with the King,” Davey said, suggesting the UK leverage that royal invitation as a bargaining chip for stronger security guarantees—especially in Ukraine’s conflict with Russia.
“He’s Praised Putin’s Invasion”
Davey pulls no punches when it comes to Trump’s track record. He slammed the ex-president for calling Putin’s invasion of Ukraine “genius,” encouraging Russia to “do whatever the hell they want” to NATO allies, and even refusing to rule out attacking a NATO member himself.
“The reality is, unfortunately, very clear. The incoming Trump administration is a threat to peace and prosperity in the UK, across Europe, and around the world,” he said. “For the next four years, we can’t rely on America being a secure partner under Trump’s leadership.”
Why a State Visit?
The Lib Dem leader suggests that Trump’s well-documented love of pomp and ceremony—from Buckingham Palace pageantry to royal banquets—could serve as a crucial leverage point.
“We all know he craves it,” Davey teased, noting that the red-carpet treatment should come only if Trump agrees to push a collective approach with Europe and Ukraine, using frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine’s war effort.
In simple terms? No “royal freebies” without real security commitments.
The Deal on the Table
Davey’s proposition is straightforward:
- Trump meets Zelenskyy and European leaders to hammer out how billions in frozen Russian funds can be used to arm Ukraine.
- If Trump pushes those measures through Congress, then the UK grants him a lavish state visit.
“Then, and only then, do we roll out the red carpet,” Davey insists.
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