US commits billions to Britain as Trump and Starmer emphasize special relationship
President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged Wednesday to “renew the special relationship for a new era” while announcing $203 billion in U.S. investment in the United Kingdom.
Speaking at a joint press conference at Chequers, Starmer described the U.K.-U.S. partnership as anchored in defense, trade, the economy, and technology, emphasizing its readiness to tackle global challenges. Trump, noting his personal ties to the U.K. through his mother, expressed gratitude for the warm receptions at Chequers and Windsor Castle, where King Charles III hosted a state banquet. He reaffirmed that the two nations will “always be friends,” highlighting the trade deal signed in June that reduced tariffs on aerospace and auto imports while maintaining steel tariffs at 25%.
The leaders addressed questions on immigration, the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, free speech, and energy policy. They differed on Palestinian statehood—set to be recognized by the U.K. at the United Nations next week—but avoided public criticism of each other’s positions. Trump expressed concerns that statehood could reward terrorism, while Starmer stressed that Hamas “is a terrorist organization that can have no part in the future governance of Palestine.” On free speech, Starmer emphasized Britain’s long-standing protections, while Trump defended his administration’s stance, dismissing criticism about comedian Jimmy Kimmel’s show suspension.
The $203 billion investment is expected to create 7,600 jobs, with $122 billion coming from Blackstone over the next decade. Microsoft pledged $30 billion over four years, Google plans $7 billion to expand a Hertfordshire data center, Prologis will invest $5 billion in manufacturing and life sciences, and Palantir committed $2 billion to defense projects. However, a proposed tariff cut on British steel was dropped, leaving the 25% duty in place.
The state visit comes amid low public trust in political leaders. Starmer’s approval ratings have hit record lows, while 78% of Britons reportedly view Trump unfavorably. Security incidents and protests also marked the visit, including projections of Trump and Jeffrey Epstein images onto Windsor Castle and demonstrations in central London.
Despite the political tension and public scrutiny, the visit allowed Starmer to secure significant U.S. investment while Trump received ceremonial honors, though it remains uncertain whether it will improve the prime minister’s domestic standing.
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