Trump Disagrees with Keir Starmer’s Recognition of Palestinian State, Urges Peace in Gaza; Both Leaders Address Ukraine-Russia Conflict and Nuclear Energy Cooperation
During a press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, President Trump expressed disagreement over Starmer’s decision to recognize the Palestinian state this month, contingent upon Israel committing to peace in Gaza.
In his address, Trump underscored the immediate need for hostage release and acknowledged the difference in approach between himself and the prime minister. He stated, “We hold contrasting views on this matter, one of our rare divergences.”
When queried about recognizing Palestinian statehood prior to Trump’s current visit, Starmer explained that the timing was unrelated to the state visit and emphasized that Hamas, due to their role in the October 7 attacks on Israel, could not be part of future governance.
Trump responded to questions regarding his ability to influence Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to halt military actions in Gaza causing civilian casualties by stating, “I aim for an end to the violence, but I’m focused on securing the release of hostages, not wanting them used as shields, as Hamas has threatened.”
Starmer, spearheading European initiatives to support Ukraine, stressed the necessity of increased pressure on Russia to cease its aggression. He remarked, “Recent actions by Putin indicate a disregard for peace, with intensified attacks and numerous civilian casualties — actions that are not conducive to diplomacy.”
Starmer added that discussions had been held on enhancing support for Ukraine and increasing pressure on Putin to negotiate a sustainable peace agreement.
Trump’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska occurred a month ago, initially intended to lead to talks between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodmyr Zelenskyy. However, the anticipated dialogue has yet to materialize, and Russian attacks on Ukraine have escalated.
Ahead of this trip, Trump proposed new sanctions on Russia, conditional upon NATO members ceasing energy purchases from Russia and imposing substantial tariffs on Chinese imports.
During his opening remarks, Trump expressed disappointment with Putin, citing broken trust. “I had anticipated a smoother path to resolving the conflict due to our personal rapport, but he has let me down.”
When asked about future steps regarding Russia, Trump stated the lack of progress was his “greatest source of discontent.” He noted that the conflict did not directly impact the United States and highlighted Starmer’s proximity to the conflict zone.
Starmer emphasized the necessity of increased pressure on Putin, stating, “Recent Russian attacks and drone incursions demonstrate the need for intensified action against Putin. It is only when President Trump exerts pressure that Putin shows signs of negotiation.”
Starmer further noted an increase in recklessness by Putin and suggested the necessity of a U.S. guarantee, as well as enhanced military planning from the UK and French governments.
In addition to these discussions, Trump mentioned efforts to regain control of Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. “We are trying to recover the base because they require our assistance. We wish to reclaim that base.”
The press conference concluded Trump’s state visit to the United Kingdom, during which the British government sought to utilize the president’s affinity for the monarchy to advance trade and security objectives. Following an extravagant banquet with the royal family at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, Trump visited Chequers, the prime minister’s country estate, where he met with top business leaders from both nations as well as Starmer.
At Chequers, Trump and Starmer signed an agreement focusing on expanding collaboration in technology and nuclear energy. Trump explained that this nuclear energy accord would facilitate advancements in AI due to the industry’s reliance on electricity.