‘He Failed Badly’ – Trump Targets Starmer Amid Growing Resignation Speculation
United States President Donald Trump has stirred fresh debate over British politics after publicly predicting that Prime Minister Keir Starmer will step down, accusing the Labour leader of failing on key national issues including immigration and energy.
In a post shared on his Truth Social platform on Sunday, Trump claimed that Starmer’s tenure as prime minister was nearing its end.
“Keir Starmer will resign as prime minister of the United Kingdom. He failed badly on two very important subjects – immigration and energy (Open North Sea oil!). I wish him well!” Trump wrote.
According to reports, Trump’s remarks appeared to be based on media coverage rather than any direct communication with the British leader, as the two had not spoken over the weekend.
The comments come at a politically sensitive moment for Starmer, who is facing growing calls within the Labour Party to clarify his future following Andy Burnham’s recent by-election victory. The result has intensified speculation over a possible leadership challenge and increased pressure on the prime minister to outline his plans.
Trump also directed criticism at Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over the weekend, questioning her popularity and accusing her of failing to support American efforts to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
Meloni responded sharply on Instagram, describing Trump’s remarks as “constant, unprovoked attacks” and insisting that her political standing was not dependent on her relationship with the US president.
Back in the UK, Business Secretary Peter Kyle sought to downplay reports that Starmer could announce a resignation timetable as early as Monday. Speaking to broadcasters, Kyle said he had no evidence to support the claims and emphasized that the prime minister remained focused on his duties.
“The only thing I can say with fact is that the prime minister is hard at work, as he is every day,” Kyle stated.
Downing Street has maintained that Starmer’s position remains unchanged, reiterating his earlier pledge that he would not “walk away” from office and would contest any leadership challenge.
However, reports suggest the prime minister spent the weekend reflecting on his future amid increasing pressure from lawmakers and ministers. Sources indicated that discussions with family members and an anticipated conversation with Andy Burnham could play a significant role in determining his next move.
Starmer’s political difficulties have been compounded by poor approval ratings and Labour’s disappointing performance in local elections earlier this year. Internal party polling is also said to indicate strong support for Burnham should a formal leadership contest take place.
Adding to the uncertainty, reports claimed that Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper privately urged Starmer to consider stepping aside, although her office has not commented publicly on the matter.
Despite the growing pressure, Starmer recently reaffirmed his intention to remain in office and contest any leadership challenge. His allies argue that Labour’s landslide general election victory in 2024 provides him with a mandate to lead the government until the next election cycle.
Nevertheless, the scale of Burnham’s recent electoral success has strengthened calls within Labour for a transition plan, with some party figures warning that a prolonged leadership battle could deepen divisions.
Former minister Jess Phillips suggested that Starmer’s time at the top may be drawing to a close, saying it would be best if any departure were handled “as dignified as possible.”
For now, the prime minister remains under intense scrutiny as speculation over his future continues to dominate British political discourse.
