US President Donald Trump has urged UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to take tougher action on immigration. Trump said Britain should even “use the military if needed” to stop migrant arrivals. The two leaders met on Thursday, September 18, during Trump’s state visit to the UK.
Trump’s remark came as Starmer defended his “one in, one out” migrant returns deal with France. The Prime Minister stressed the need to prove the policy can work. Both leaders also signed a major tech investment deal covering AI, quantum, and nuclear energy.
Trump’s Immigration Advice to Keir Starmer
Trump told reporters that uncontrolled immigration could “destroy countries from within.” He urged Starmer to use all available means to control the flow of migrants. “It doesn’t matter if you call out the military,” Trump said.
Starmer responded carefully. He highlighted the UK’s recent agreement with France to return migrants. He said proving this policy can succeed is vital for Britain’s credibility.
According to Reuters, the meeting at Chequers also included symbolic events, such as a Red Devils display. It was the final day of Trump’s UK visit, which he called an “exquisite honour.”
Points of Agreement and Disagreement
The two leaders presented a united front on economic cooperation. The tech investment deal was described as a milestone that will create thousands of jobs. Officials expect billions in investment in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and clean energy.
But Trump also made clear his disagreement with Starmer on one major foreign policy issue. He said he opposed the UK’s recognition of Palestine as a state. “It’s one of our few disagreements,” Trump noted.
Starmer pushed back slightly, saying he and Trump “absolutely agree” on the need for a peace roadmap in Gaza. He added the current situation there is intolerable and requires urgent action.
Wider Impact of the Meeting
The press conference was watched closely for signs of tension. Both leaders avoided being drawn into controversies, including questions about ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Instead, they emphasized shared goals on trade, jobs, and security.
For Starmer, the meeting underscored Britain’s efforts to balance domestic priorities with strong ties to Washington. For Trump, it was a chance to show alignment with the UK while stressing his trademark hard line on immigration.
The immigration debate remains at the center of UK politics. Trump’s call to “use military if needed” added new weight to the discussion. Both leaders now face pressure to show their approaches can deliver results.
FYI (keeping you in the loop)-
Q1: What did Donald Trump tell Keir Starmer about immigration?
Trump told Starmer to stop migrant arrivals and said the UK should “use the military if needed” to enforce control.
Q2: How did Keir Starmer respond?
Starmer said Britain must prove its “one in, one out” migrant returns deal with France can work effectively.
Q3: Did the two leaders agree on Palestine?
No. Trump opposed the UK’s recognition of Palestine, while Starmer stood by the decision but agreed on the need for a peace roadmap.
Q4: What other deals were signed?
The leaders announced a major tech investment deal in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and nuclear energy, promising thousands of jobs.
Q5: What was the wider outcome of the meeting?
Both leaders stressed unity on trade and security, while carefully avoiding controversies. The visit ended without major conflict.
