US President Donald Trump warned on Wednesday that America's trade deal with the United Kingdom "can always be changed," according to reports from bbc.com.
Speaking to Sky News, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of the 'special relationship' between the two nations. He noted that the bilateral ties have "been better."
Trump's comments follow a period of friction between the US and the government of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The US president has criticized Starmer for refusing to join the US-led coalition against Iran in late February.
Trump specifically targeted the UK's reliability, stating that the relationship is one where the UK was absent during critical moments. "When we asked them for help, they were not there. When we needed them, they were not there," Trump said, as reported by bbc.com.
Trade and diplomacy under pressure
Despite the rhetoric, Trump maintained that the US provided a favorable economic arrangement. He claimed the administration gave the UK a deal "better than I had to," but added that such terms are subject to change.
Last May, the UK became the first nation to secure a tariff deal with the Trump administration following his return to office. That agreement reduced import taxes on various goods, including steel, aluminum, and automobiles.
Relations between the two leaders have strained further over Middle East policy. Trump has frequently attacked Starmer's approach to the conflict, even labeling the Prime Minister "no Winston Churchill" on one occasion.
Trump also took aim at domestic UK policy, calling the Starmer government's energy and immigration strategies "insane." However, he noted that he still "liked Starmer."
Trump suggested that these diplomatic disputes would not impact the upcoming state visit by King Charles and Queen Camilla to the United States. He emphasized that the King is not involved in political negotiations.
"I've known the King for a long time, and he's not involved in that process," Trump said. He added that he looks forward to the visit, describing the monarch as "wonderful."
