Trump’s state visit to Britain leaves Keir Starmer juggling diplomacy and political fallout

Donald Trump’s looming state visit to the United Kingdom has put Prime Minister Keir Starmer in the spotlight, forcing him to navigate a minefield of diplomacy and domestic politics.

The invitation, extended months ago in the hope of strengthening transatlantic ties, now leaves Downing Street in an awkward position. Trump, known for his unpredictable rhetoric and combative style, remains as polarising in Britain as he is in the United States. For Starmer, the challenge is simple but stark: show the US president due respect as head of state while avoiding the impression of endorsement.

The visit comes at a fraught moment. Starmer is still steadying his government after the abrupt dismissal of Peter Mandelson as Britain’s ambassador to Washington, following revelations about Mandelson’s contact with Jeffrey Epstein. With a new envoy yet to be appointed, the prime minister faces Trump’s arrival without a permanent ambassador in place — an unusual and delicate situation.

No 10 insists the visit is an opportunity. Officials point to the importance of reaffirming the so-called “special relationship” and securing progress on defence, trade, and security. Yet behind closed doors, ministers admit the optics could be perilous. The prime minister must stand beside a figure whose politics and public standing are fiercely divisive, not only in America but also across the UK and Europe.

Public protests are expected, just as they were during Trump’s previous visit in 2018, when a giant blimp depicting him as a baby floated over Parliament Square. Activists are already preparing demonstrations, with organisers promising a “mass mobilisation” in London. Labour strategists fear images of Trump embraced too warmly could alienate parts of Starmer’s support base, particularly younger voters and progressives who view the president as toxic.

On the other hand, icy treatment risks damaging Britain’s relationship with Washington at a time when global instability makes close cooperation vital. Trump has deep connections within the US establishment, particularly the Pentagon, and is known to expect displays of deference. Several senior figures in Starmer’s cabinet, including Foreign Secretary David Lammy, are said to be pushing for a careful choreography that avoids overt warmth without lapsing into hostility.

Complicating matters further is Trump’s open criticism of European leaders. His repeated attacks on NATO allies for “free-riding” on US military spending, and his scepticism over climate change initiatives, place him at odds with key pillars of Starmer’s foreign policy. The UK government wants to show firm leadership on both issues, but it must do so without sparking an unnecessary row on live television.

There is also the domestic political angle. Starmer has staked his premiership on competence and stability after years of turbulence. A misstep with Trump could hand ammunition to critics who claim Labour is unprepared to handle the complexities of world affairs. Even minor incidents — an awkward handshake, a poorly worded remark, or visible tension during a press conference — could dominate headlines and overshadow policy gains.

For now, Downing Street is playing down the drama. “This is an important moment to reaffirm the UK-US partnership,” one official said, stressing the visit would focus on areas of common interest such as defence, energy, and global security. Yet behind the scenes, planners are acutely aware that no state visit involving Donald Trump is ever routine.

In the end, Starmer must walk the tightrope. Too much warmth could damage him at home; too much frostiness could harm Britain abroad. The stakes are high, and the whole world will be watching.