During his recent visit to Scotland, US President Donald Trump publicly reignited his long-standing feud with Sadiq Khan, the three-time Mayor of London. Addressing a press conference at his Turnberry golf resort alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump was asked if he planned to visit London during his upcoming trip to the UK. He responded affirmatively but could not resist taking a swipe at Khan, stating, "I’m not a fan of your mayor. I think he’s done a terrible job ... a nasty person"—comments made in full media view with Prime Minister Starmer seated beside him.
Prime minister Keir Starmer defends Sadiq Khan
Trump's remarks put Starmer in an awkward position, prompting the new British prime minister to interject, "He’s a friend of mine, actually." Despite Starmer's attempt to cool the situation, Trump repeated his criticism: "I think he’s done a terrible job. But I would certainly visit London". The moment underscored not only the personal animosity between Trump and Khan but also created a rare public divergence between the US president and the British prime minister.
Khan's office responds: 'Delighted' to welcome Trump
Reacting swiftly, a spokesperson for Sadiq Khan said the Mayor was "delighted" at the prospect of Trump's visit to London. The statement highlighted how Trump would witness the city’s diversity and inclusivity, saying, “He’d see how our diversity makes us stronger, not weaker; richer, not poorer.” The spokesperson added a pointed political note: “Perhaps these are the reasons why a record number of Americans have applied for British citizenship under his presidency”. Khan’s response was seen as both a rebuke and an open invitation, turning Trump’s criticism into an opportunity to showcase London’s strengths and values.
A history of mutual criticism
The feud between Trump and Khan extends back several years. During Trump’s first term in office, he repeatedly called Khan a "stone cold loser" and attacked his handling of crime and terrorism in London. Khan, the first Muslim mayor of a Western capital, has openly denounced Trump’s divisive rhetoric and policies, especially those affecting Muslims and minorities. Their public disputes have included barbs over security, race, and the very identity of London.
Political implications amid UK-US relations
While London and Washington aim to strengthen their diplomatic and economic ties—especially post-Brexit—Trump’s latest remarks risk complicating local politics in the UK. Khan has previously warned of the dangers posed by “reactionary populists” and urged vigilance against divisive figures. Nevertheless, despite their differences, Khan acknowledged Trump’s status as the elected president, urging Londoners to hope that his second term brings a different leadership style.
The renewed Trump-Khan spat highlights ongoing tensions over leadership, diversity, and the values that London and many Western cities have come to embody. For Khan, Trump’s remarks offered a platform to reaffirm London’s multicultural identity; for Trump, it was another opportunity to position himself as an outspoken critic of progressive urban governance. As Trump prepares for his next visit to London, all eyes will be on further developments in this highly public rivalry.
