UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has extended his congratulations to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump ahead of his second-term inauguration, reaffirming the “special relationship” between the two nations. In a statement released Sunday evening, Starmer emphasized the enduring partnership between the United Kingdom and the United States, pledging continued collaboration to advance mutual prosperity and security.
“For centuries, the relationship between our two nations has been one of collaboration, cooperation, and enduring partnership. It is a uniquely close bond,” Starmer said. “Together, we have defended the world from tyranny and worked towards our mutual security and prosperity.”
The president-elect is set to be sworn in on Monday, marking his return to the White House eight years after his first inauguration. Trump spent the eve of the event at a fiery rally in Washington, D.C., where he declared that his supporters had “built a new American majority that will lead our country to success for generations to come.”
Starmer recalled his first meeting with Trump in September at Trump Tower in New York, where the two leaders discussed their shared vision for strengthening the transatlantic relationship. “I am a great believer in personal relations on the international stage,” Starmer said, noting that their discussions laid the groundwork for future cooperation.
The UK prime minister also pledged to build upon the historic alliance, which he described as “unshakeable.” He highlighted opportunities for growth and collaboration in addressing global challenges. “Since our first meeting in September, the President and I have spoken about the need to deepen and invest in the transatlantic relationship. We will continue to build upon the unshakeable foundations of our historic alliance as we tackle together the global challenges we face,” Starmer said.
The so-called special relationship, which has long been a cornerstone of UK foreign policy, is expected to face new tests during Trump’s second term. Trump has frequently signaled his intention to implement protectionist policies, including tariffs, which could have ripple effects on the global economy. British politicians, including prominent Trump ally Nigel Farage, are in Washington for the inauguration, amid ongoing speculation about how Trump’s return to the White House will influence the UK’s post-Brexit trade ambitions.
Starmer struck an optimistic tone, expressing confidence in the deep bonds between the two nations. “The special relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States will continue to flourish for years to come,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to peace, prosperity, and security on both sides of the Atlantic.
The inauguration will take place under heightened security in Washington, with thousands of law enforcement officers deployed throughout the city. Trump will take the presidential oath of office in an indoor ceremony at the Capitol, moved inside due to harsh weather conditions.