US President Donald Trump has urged UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to use the military to stop illegal migration to Britain, marking a striking moment at the close of his state visit to the UK.
Speaking at Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s countryside retreat, Chequers, Trump told Starmer to use the military to stop illegal migration into Britain.
“You’ve got to use the military sometimes,” he said bluntly, warning that illegal crossings could “destroy countries from within.”
Trump drew on his own tough US border policies as an example and didn’t shy away from pushing for firm action on the influx of migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats.
His remarks came as tensions over immigration continue to grip the UK, highlighting just how raw the issue has become.
UK’s Illegal migration problem and growing protests
Illegal migration is a hot-button issue in the UK right now. Thousands of migrants have made the perilous journey across the Channel, sparking national debate and public anxiety.
But what’s really caught attention recently is the wave of protests that have erupted around the country.
Groups on the far right, including figures like Tommy Robinson, have organized huge rallies, some drawing over 100,000 people to protest immigration policies.
These protests can get pretty heated, with scuffles breaking out between demonstrators and police, and sometimes even violence.
Many of these rallies target hotels housing asylum seekers, which some locals believe strain community resources.
The government insists it’s working hard, stepping up patrols, tightening deals with France, but the protests show just how deeply divided public opinion remains on this sensitive subject.
What Trump’s visit meant for the UK
Trump’s trip wasn’t just about state banquets and polite meetings (though there were plenty of those with King Charles III and Starmer).
It was clear the former US president wanted to make his mark, especially on immigration.
He praised the “special relationship” between the US and UK, mingled with some pointed comments on migration, urging Starmer to take a leaf from his book back home.
Despite the high-profile events, there were also protests and vocal opposition, but Trump stayed focused, declaring Starmer a “really fine guy” amid his tough talk.
Beyond immigration, the visit touched on cooperation around defense, trade, and even a sharp critique of Putin’s handling of Ukraine.
In the end, this visit was a mix of diplomatic flair and direct policy advice, and Trump didn’t just come to make friends but to push for stronger UK border controls, reflecting his own no-nonsense approach.
Trump’s visit to the UK was a reminder that while the transatlantic friendship runs deep, debates over immigration and security are far from settled, and both leaders appear ready to face those challenges head-on.
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