During his recent state visit to the UK, U.S. President Donald Trump urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to take a tougher stance on immigration, warning that the issue could “hurt him badly” politically if left unchecked.
Speaking to Fox News at the end of his trip, Trump described Starmer as “a very fine guy” but stressed that Britain needs a firmer approach to border security. He suggested involving the military in tackling small boat crossings, claiming illegal migration could “destroy” countries if not controlled.
Trump also commented on the UK’s energy crisis, urging Starmer to unlock the North Sea’s oil potential. He argued that restrictions on drilling were driving up energy prices, despite Britain having “some of the best oil in the world.”
The remarks came after Trump and Starmer held private discussions at Chequers, the Prime Minister’s country residence. Trump pointed to his own record on U.S. border security as an example for the UK.
The UK has seen over 31,000 migrants cross the Channel so far in 2025. In response, Britain and France launched a new pilot scheme in July to manage arrivals. Under the agreement, asylum seekers who cross illegally will be returned to France, while approved applicants can resettle in the UK under a “one in, one out” policy.
The first detentions under this scheme began last month, with migrants held in removal centres before being sent back to France. The first approved arrivals are expected to come to the UK in the coming days. Meanwhile, legal challenges have already begun, with at least one migrant fighting deportation through the High Court.
Trump’s remarks highlight how immigration and energy policy remain two of the most divisive issues in UK politics, and his intervention is likely to spark further debate on whether Starmer should adopt a stricter approach.
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