Trump says King's visit could repair UK relations amid tensions

US President Donald Trump stated in a phone interview with the BBC that the upcoming state visit from King Charles and Queen Camilla could "absolutely" help repair relations with the UK. Trump described King Charles as "fantastic" and expressed confidence that the visit would be beneficial. He noted, "I know him well, I've known him for years. He's a brave man, and he's a great man. They would absolutely be a positive."

The royal couple's four-day visit will begin on Monday, during which they will meet with Trump at the White House and King Charles will deliver an address to Congress. The trip coincides with the 250th anniversary of US independence and aims to celebrate the partnership of "shared prosperity, security and history."

In the interview, Trump also commented on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership, suggesting that Starmer could only "recover" if he changed his immigration policies. Trump criticized Starmer's appointment of Lord Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US, calling it a "really bad pick." He emphasized the need for the UK to increase oil and gas extraction in the North Sea and expressed dissatisfaction with the UK's support regarding the war in Iran, stating, "I didn't need them at all but they should've been there."

Trump's remarks indicate a strategic positioning as he seeks to leverage the royal visit to strengthen ties with the UK while simultaneously applying pressure on Starmer to align more closely with his administration's policies. The visit presents an opportunity for Trump to showcase his influence over UK-US relations, while Starmer's leadership is tested amid criticism and calls for policy shifts.

What to watch: The outcome of King Charles and Queen Camilla's meetings with Trump and their potential impact on UK-US relations.