Trump Highlights Strong US-UK Ties During state Visit, Hints at Progress on Ukraine
Chequers, Britain - September 18, 2025 – U.S. President Donald Trump concluded a state visit to the United Kingdom today, emphasizing the enduring strength of the relationship between the two nations and hinting at potential breakthroughs in the Russia-Ukraine war. The visit, marked by both ceremonial events and meaningful business discussions, culminated in a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Chequers.
“The United Kingdom, the United states stand together today as first partners on defense, first partners in trade, with the groundbreaking deal we struck in May, and now with a new agreement that we’ve just signed this afternoon, we’re confirming our status as the first partners in science and technology ready to define this century together, just as we did the last,” Starmer stated.
Trump echoed this sentiment, describing the bond between the two countries as ”like no other anywhere in the world.” He added, “We’re forever joined, and we are forever friends, and we will always be friends.” He pointed to the “enduring connection” as the reason the U.K. became the first country globally to sign a trade deal with the U.S. in May. That deal includes a 10% blanket tariff applicable to British goods imported into the U.S., granting the U.K. one of the most favorable tariff rates worldwide.
The visit also yielded substantial economic benefits for the U.K. The government announced £150 billion ($204 billion) in foreign investment on thursday, encompassing key agreements in the tech, energy, and AI sectors. According to a government statement, thes deals will ”boost jobs, drive growth and deliver possibility for working people up and down the country.”
Throughout the visit, Trump engaged in meetings with Starmer, initially at Windsor Castle and concluding at Chequers. Leaders and their delegations also met with business leaders at a reception hosted by British Finance Minister Rachel Reeves.
Earlier in the week, President and First Lady Melania Trump were hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle, receiving a royal gun salute, a carriage procession, and a guard of honor. At a state banquet on Wednesday night, Trump described the invitation to a second state visit as “one of the highest honors of my life,” and jokingly expressed hope he would be the only president to receive such an honor twice.
While details were scarce, Trump also briefly alluded to positive developments regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, hinting at “good news” coming soon. Further data on this matter has not yet been released.
– CNBC’s Chloe Taylor contributed to this report.
