Should the UK roll out the red carpet for a state visit from Donald Trump? Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey says it’s only worth it if the president-elect first delivers crucial support for Ukraine and strengthens European security. What do you think?
How would you feel about rolling out the red carpet for a state visit from Donald Trump to the UK?
It’s something the erratic president-elect has made no secret of wanting, but as Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey points out, there’s a pretty big condition attached to that invite.
According to Sir Ed, the UK should only welcome Trump with open arms if he first delivers on his promise to support Ukraine in its battle against Putin’s invasion. He said: “And if Trump delivers on that deal, pushing the necessary measures through Congress. Then, and only then, do we roll out the red carpet for a state visit.”
Now, Sir Ed hasn’t exactly been shy about his opinions on Trump. He’s called him the first “convicted criminal” to take the presidential oath and even described his incoming administration as a “threat to peace and security” globally.
Sir Ed warned that for the next four years, the UK could struggle to rely on the incoming US President for much help on security, defence, or even the economy.
But he also thinks that Keir Starmer’s Labour government could deal with Trump from a position of strength, especially if the UK renews its ties with the EU. His idea? A new UK-EU customs union, set to kick off by 2030, to give the UK’s economy a real boost.
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In his first big speech of 2025, Sir Ed was pretty clear about his stance: “We have something Trump desperately wants: a state visit. The pageantry at Buckingham Palace. A banquet with the King. We all know he craves it. So I say we give it to him. But only if he delivers what we need first for Britain and Europe’s defence and security.”
Trump was first invited for a formal state visit by the Queen back in January 2017, but it wasn’t until the summer of 2019 that he took up the offer. If he gets invited back for a second time, he’ll be the first elected politician in modern history to be hosted for two state visits by the Royals.
So, what do you reckon? Is Trump’s state visit something you’d be willing to entertain if it meant more support for Ukraine, a stronger UK-EU relationship, and a boost to our economy? Or should we skip the pageantry until he proves he can really deliver for Europe’s security?
What do YOU think? Would you welcome a state visit from Donald Trump? Take our poll above and expand on your decision in the comments below.
