President Donald J. Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a landmark technology partnership agreement on Thursday, pledging closer cooperation in artificial intelligence and other high-tech fields. Both leaders said the deal would help the United States and the United Kingdom strengthen their positions at the forefront of innovation.
Talks on Ukraine and Gaza
At a joint press conference, Mr. Starmer revealed that the wars in Ukraine and Gaza had featured prominently in their private discussions. Brushing aside speculation that Mr. Trump is more sympathetic to Moscow and Tel Aviv than other Western leaders, the prime minister stressed their common ground.
“We are working together to end the humanitarian catastrophe in the Middle East,” he said. “We’re also working together to end the killing in Ukraine. In recent days, Putin has mounted the largest attacks since the invasion began—more bloodshed, more innocent lives lost, and violations of NATO airspace. These are not the actions of someone who wants peace.”
Mr. Trump echoed the criticism, remarking of Russian President Vladimir V. Putin: “He’s let me down, he’s really let me down.”
Royal Hospitality
Wednesday’s ceremonial events showcased Britain’s royal splendor, culminating in a white-tie dinner at Windsor Castle attended by senior U.S. officials, American business leaders, and British dignitaries. Mr. Trump, long fond of grand displays, praised King Charles III as “a great gentleman and a great king” before departing for Chequers, the prime minister’s countryside residence, on Thursday morning.
Meanwhile, First Lady Melania Trump remained in Windsor, where she joined Queen Camilla and Catherine, Princess of Wales, in cultural and youth-focused events, including a visit to Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House and an engagement with the Scouts Association.
Economic and Energy Agreements
The state visit also served as a platform for major investment announcements. Microsoft, OpenAI, and Blackstone pledged more than $200 billion for projects in Britain over the next decade, while British firms such as pharmaceutical giant GSK confirmed plans to invest in the United States.
In addition, the two governments agreed to deepen cooperation on nuclear energy. Mr. Starmer’s administration has promised to fast-track approval processes for new plants in Britain, while Mr. Trump has issued executive orders aimed at accelerating nuclear reactor development in the United States.
Protests in London
While the official receptions were filled with pomp, the visit also drew sharp opposition. Thousands of demonstrators flooded central London on Wednesday to protest against Mr. Trump’s policies, underscoring the divisive impact of his presence in Britain.
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