Trump Slams London Mayor as Starmer Awkwardly Defends Him During UK Visit

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Former President Donald Trump didn’t hold back during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Turnberry, branding London Mayor Sadiq Khan a “nasty person” who has “done a terrible job.”

The blunt remarks prompted Starmer to intervene, insisting, “He’s a friend of mine.”

Trump, confirming plans to visit London during his upcoming September state visit, was unapologetic. “I’m not a fan of your mayor,” he said. “He’s a nasty person. I think he’s done a terrible job.” Despite his criticism, Trump added, “But I would certainly visit London.”

The exchange marked the latest chapter in a long-standing feud between Trump and Khan, which began in 2015 when Khan criticised Trump’s proposed travel ban. Tensions flared again after the 2017 London Bridge attack, with Trump blaming the mayor’s handling of migration and crime. 

Khan later allowed anti-Trump protests, including the infamous “Trump baby blimp,” during previous state visits.

Responding to the recent jab, a spokesperson for Khan said the mayor “is delighted President Trump wants to visit the greatest city in the world,” adding he would witness “how our diversity makes us stronger.”

The press conference covered a range of topics, including the war in Ukraine—where Trump vowed to shorten his proposed peace plan deadline—and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which he described as “a mess.” He also criticised the expansion of wind farms in Scotland, calling them “nasty,” while encouraging the UK to maintain oil production.

Trump expressed optimism about ongoing UK-US trade deal negotiations, emphasizing the importance of strengthening economic ties.

Commenting on the surge in Channel crossings, Trump said: “Europe is a much different place than it was five or ten years ago. You can’t ruin it by letting people in illegally.”

His visit, though informal, was rich in symbolism—welcoming the Prime Minister and his wife to his Turnberry resort, where their talks echoed a shared concern over border control, national identity, and economic resilience.