Six years ago, David Lammy called Donald Trump a “woman-hating, neo-Nazi-sympathising sociopath” and a “serious threat to the international order.” Yet on Wednesday, Lammy, now the UK’s Foreign Secretary, offered Trump “congratulations” on his presidential victory, expressing Britain’s intent to work together.
Lammy’s recent approach aims to repair the relationship with Trump and his supporters. Over the past year, he has visited the United States multiple times, holding talks with key Republicans, including Vice President-elect JD Vance and Senator Lindsey Graham.
Lammy’s ‘Charm Offensive’
Lammy’s efforts to build bridges have included meeting prominent Republicans and describing himself as a “small c conservative” with a commitment to family values. These overtures follow a September dinner with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Trump at Trump Tower, where the trio discussed Trump’s Scottish heritage, royal connections, and his interests in Britain.
Will Lammy’s Past Comments Hinder Relations?
Whether Lammy’s gestures will erase his past remarks about Trump remains to be seen. Hours after Lammy’s congratulatory message, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch questioned in Parliament whether Lammy had apologised for his past comments about Trump. She also challenged Starmer to invite Trump to address Parliament, despite Labour ministers previously supporting a motion to ban him from doing so.
Starmer, however, described the dinner with Trump as “constructive” and later spoke with the president-elect, discussing the importance of the UK-US relationship in areas like defence and security.
Elon Musk’s Influence on Trump Could Complicate Relations
Trump’s close ties with Elon Musk, who recently criticised the UK on social media, could create further diplomatic hurdles. Musk, now a strong Trump ally, has committed over $100 million to Republican causes and is tipped for a key role in Trump’s administration. His influence may shape Trump’s stance on various issues affecting international alliances.
Musk’s comments about the UK’s trajectory following recent riots suggest he holds a sceptical view of the country’s current direction. Excluded from Starmer’s recent investment summit, Musk has been vocal, advising people not to visit the UK.
Ambassadorship in Focus
Trump’s victory may affect Starmer’s choice for UK ambassador to the US, with incumbent Dame Karen Pierce likely to remain. Known as the “Trump whisperer” in diplomatic circles, Pierce has fostered strong Republican ties and even arranged a private meeting between Trump and former Foreign Secretary David Cameron. Starmer delayed recruitment for a new ambassador until the election results were clear, keeping Pierce’s term extension as an option.
Mixed Reactions from UK Leaders
Not all UK leaders welcome Trump’s return. London’s Labour mayor, Sadiq Khan, expressed concerns, suggesting Trump’s win may increase anxiety in the city. Khan has portrayed London as a beacon of diversity and progressive values and hopes the city’s “quality of life” and “stable leadership” will attract global investors despite cultural rifts with Trump’s America.
Khan’s allies confirm that he believes the city’s commitment to inclusivity will make it a preferred destination for international investment. “London is — and will always be — for everyone,” Khan said, emphasising the city’s commitment to diversity, unity, and human rights.
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