𝓤𝓷𝓲𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓝𝓮𝔀𝓼

The transatlantic rift between Sir Keir Starmer and Donald Trump will only deepen after the bombshell revelation that the US could review its backing of the UK’s claim on the Falkland Islands. The US president is a man on a mission to punish Sir Keir for his inaction over Iran by backing Argentina’s claim to the remote South Atlantic archipelago.

It follows Britain’s refusal to fully back US strikes against Iran. The Falklands, which boast strategic military positioning in the South Atlantic, are an overseas territory of the UK, but they are also claimed by Argentina. The dispute between the two states over sovereignty of the islands escalated into conflict when Argentina invaded the Falklands in April 1982. Washington has traditionally recognised the UK’s position while encouraging a diplomatic resolution.

But now a leaked Pentagon memo lays bare a relationship under strain, with aides to Trump interpreting Starmer’s caution over backing US strikes on Iran as a failure of NATO alliance leadership.

Britain’s initial hesitation to grant US access to its bases are cited as examples of reluctance. Sir Keir initially rejected a US plea to use UK bases to strike Iran. He later U-turned and gave permission for their army to use bases in Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire.

The threat that Washington may tilt towards Argentina’s claim to the Falklands is a calculated warning that under Trump, longstanding diplomatic assumptions can quickly become bargaining chips.

It throws into doubt NATO cohesion and alliance expectations, especially with the proposed US punishment including suspending Spain from the group for its refusal to allow its bases or airspace for attacks on Iran.

The role of the UK as a “bridge” between the US and Europe is also at risk.

But this highlights how far the US president is willing to use territorial disputes for leverage.

The UK Prime Minister will be desperately hoping that his deployment of King Charles to the US on a state visit next week will go some way in diffusing the tension between the UK and US.

When asked in a phone interview with the BBC whether the visit could help repair the relationship, Trump said: “Absolutely. He’s fantastic. He’s a fantastic man. Absolutely, the answer is yes.

“I know him well, I’ve known him for years. He’s a brave man, and he’s a great man. They would absolutely be a positive.”