Donald Trump suggested Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer could use the military to stop illegal migration at a news conference marking the end of the US president's second state visit to the UK. Trump said he discussed migration issues with Sir Keir during a meeting at his country residence Chequers.
The US president highlighted his strict border control policies and mentioned that the UK faces challenges similar to those in the US, particularly with migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats. He stated, You have people coming in and I told the prime minister I would stop it, and it doesn't matter if you call out the military, it doesn't matter what means you use.
Trump emphasized the damage caused by uncontrolled migration, saying it destroys countries from within while referring to his administration's increased deportations and efforts against illegal border crossings since returning to the White House in January.
The news conference was part of a series of events attended by Trump, including hosting at Windsor Castle by King Charles and a state banquet. In a wide-ranging Q&A, the leaders discussed various topics such as Palestinian statehood, free speech, the war in Ukraine, and energy.
During the conference, both leaders expressed commitment to the special relationship between the UK and the US, announcing a new tech deal aimed at enhancing investments in artificial intelligence and other technologies. They also addressed the controversial subject of illegal migration, with Trump and Sir Keir finding common ground on tackling the issue.
Trump's proposals included heightened cooperation with allies to address migration, as figures reveal over 30,000 individuals have crossed the English Channel in small boats this year alone. The political pressure on Sir Keir to find effective solutions to curb this rising trend in illegal crossings remains high, with the prime minister acknowledging multiple migrant return agreements in place.
