In a recent press conference in Scotland, President Donald Trump took another opportunity to criticize the mayor of London, Sadiq Khan. During his address, he labeled Khan as “a nasty person” who has “done a terrible job,” alluding to previous disagreements they have had since Trump’s presidency began. This comment was made amid Trump’s four-day informal summer visit to Scotland, which primarily includes stops at his two golf courses – Trump International Golf Links in Aberdeenshire and Trump Turnberry in South Ayrshire.
The animosity between Trump and Khan is not new. The president has a history of making disparaging remarks about the London mayor. For instance, in July 2019, shortly after arriving in the UK, Trump referred to Khan as a “stone cold loser” while criticizing his leadership during a wave of crime in the British capital. This latest reprimand appears to be a continuation of that feud, as Trump stated during the press conference, “I am not a fan of your mayor. I think he’s done a terrible job, the mayor of London… a nasty person.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who was present during Trump’s remarks, took it upon himself to defend Khan by interjecting, “He’s a friend of mine, actually,” highlighting an apparent camaraderie between the Prime Minister and the Mayor of London, contrasting the president’s critical stance. In response, a spokesperson for Khan expressed that the mayor was “delighted that President Trump wants to come to the greatest city in the world,” attempting to shift the narrative towards a more positive angle regarding Trump’s upcoming visit to London.
This upcoming visit, which will take place from September 17 to 19, follows an official invitation extended by King Charles III for a second state visit. During this trip, Trump will be accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump and will be hosted at Windsor Castle. The invitation represents a significant moment, as it marks only the second time an American president has received such an honor.
In addition to personal jabs at Khan, Trump’s comments during the press conference also touched upon themes of immigration and diversity. A spokesperson for Khan responded to Trump’s critique, stating, “He’d see how our diversity makes us stronger not weaker; richer, not poorer,” implying that the dynamic cultural landscape of London is one of its strengths, contrary to Trump’s narrative. The spokesperson further noted that “a record number of Americans have applied for British citizenship under his presidency,” suggesting that the immigration policies of both the UK and the US are more complex than Trump’s statements might indicate.
Khan has served as London’s mayor since 2016 and was re-elected for a third term in 2024. He has been a frequent target of Trump’s ire, with their exchanges often drawing significant media attention. For example, Trump’s prior comments following the London Bridge attack in 2017 led to a contentious exchange where Trump questioned Khan’s capabilities by challenging him to an IQ test.
The press conference where Trump made his remarks took place at one of his golf resorts in Turnberry. Given the political and personal tensions surrounding Trump, his comments have garnered varied reactions, reflecting the divisive nature of his governance style and his criticisms of foreign leaders. As the date of his visit approaches, it remains to be seen how the relationship between Trump and Khan will develop, especially in the context of their differing views on governance and urban challenges.
Overall, this interaction sheds light on the complexities of international relations in contemporary politics, highlighting how personal dynamics can often overshadow larger geopolitical issues.
