Trump, Starmer Discuss Potential 'Great' US-UK Trade Deal

U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism on Thursday about a potential "great" post-Brexit trade deal with the United Kingdom, suggesting that a new agreement could be finalized quickly and without tariffs. Trump made the remarks during a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the White House, where he also praised Starmer as a skilled and tough negotiator.

"We're going to have a great trade agreement, one way or the other," Trump told reporters. "This could come together rather quickly."

The prospect of a US-UK trade deal has long been a key talking point for pro-Brexit politicians, who championed the idea of securing new trade deals outside of the European Union. However, efforts to finalize such an agreement post-Brexit stalled during the tenure of former U.S. President Joe Biden.

Trump, a billionaire businessman known for his book The Art of the Deal, was full of praise for Starmer’s negotiating abilities. "You're a very tough negotiator — I’m not sure I like that, but that’s okay," Trump joked, further acknowledging Starmer’s efforts in the negotiations. "He tried. He was working hard, I'll tell you that. He earned whatever the hell they pay him over there."

While Trump has repeatedly threatened to impose tariffs on trade partners with whom the U.S. has large trade deficits, including the European Union and China, his comments suggested a desire to avoid such measures in a deal with Britain.

"There's a real possibility that we could end up with a trade agreement where tariffs wouldn't be necessary," Trump added. "It could be really terrific for both countries."

Starmer, who has been working to build stronger economic ties between the UK and the U.S. since taking office, expressed confidence following the meeting. He described the discussions as "productive" and highlighted that both nations were now working on a new economic deal aimed at enhancing trade.

The UK Prime Minister also defended Britain’s trade balance with the United States, calling it "fair, balanced, and reciprocal."

Trump’s comments signal a shift in the direction of U.S.-UK relations as his administration looks to revitalize trade talks with Britain, which had faltered during Biden’s presidency. Both leaders expressed hope that an agreement could be reached soon, one that would benefit both nations and further solidify their economic partnership in the post-Brexit era.