The UK can ‘no longer rely’ on Washington as an ally, former adviser warns

WorldPolitics
8 Apr 2026 • 6:45 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • The relationship between Sir Keir Starmer and Donald Trump has become increasingly strained following the UK's refusal to join US offensive operations against Iran in the Middle East.
  • Lord Peter Ricketts, a former national security adviser, says the UK should “completely forget” the idea of a special relationship with the US and can “no longer rely” on Washington as an ally.
  • Donald Trump has publicly criticised Sir Keir, likening him to Neville Chamberlain and mimicking him, suggesting a lack of respect for the Prime Minister.
  • Former foreign secretary Sir James Cleverly said that Donald Trump “does not respect Keir Starmer” and believes their personal relationship is “damaged”.
  • Sir Keir Starmer is set to travel to the Gulf to discuss diplomatic efforts and has welcomed the recently announced conditional two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran.

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