In a stunning reversal of tone, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who once lambasted Donald Trump as a “tyrant in a toupee,” sang the praises of the incoming U.S. president on Monday. Speaking to BBC Radio 4 just hours before Trump’s inauguration, Lammy described the president-elect as “graceful, generous, and very warm about the U.K.”
The remarks mark a dramatic shift for Lammy, who in his days as an opposition MP, labeled Trump a “serial liar,” “xenophobic,” and “no friend of Britain.” Now, as Britain’s top diplomat under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Lammy appears eager to mend fences with the man poised to lead the world’s most powerful nation.
A diplomatic about-face
Lammy’s newfound warmth for Trump seems rooted in a face-to-face meeting last year, which the foreign secretary described as a turning point in his perception of the Republican.
“The Donald Trump I met was incredibly gracious, keen to be a good host, and very funny,” Lammy said, adding that Trump spoke fondly of the U.K., its royal family, and Scotland, where the former president owns a golf resort.
Lammy also highlighted his budding relationship with incoming Vice President J.D. Vance, emphasizing the importance of strengthening ties between the U.S. and the U.K.
“You’re going to struggle to find any politician who didn’t have things to say about Donald Trump back in the day,” Lammy quipped, seeking to downplay his earlier criticisms.
Keir Starmer extends an olive branch
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, leader of Britain’s center-left Labour Party, also struck a conciliatory tone, offering Trump “warmest congratulations” and hailing his “long-standing affection and historical ties to the United Kingdom.”
In a statement issued overnight, Starmer vowed to build upon the “unshakeable foundations” of the U.S.-U.K. alliance, stressing collaboration on global challenges and shared opportunities for growth.
This marks a notable pivot for Starmer, who has previously clashed with Trump donor and incoming government efficiency czar Elon Musk over policy disagreements.
British conservatives rally for Trump’s big day
While the U.K. government’s official presence at the inauguration will be limited to outgoing Ambassador Karen Pierce, a host of British conservative figures have flocked to Washington for the occasion.
Among them are Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK and a longtime Trump ally; Priti Patel, Conservative Shadow Foreign Secretary; and former Prime Ministers Boris Johnson and Liz Truss. Also in attendance is Conservative MP Suella Braverman, a vocal supporter of Trump’s policies.
Their presence underscores the enduring ties between Trump and Britain’s political right, which has often viewed him as a disruptor aligned with their own populist ambitions.
A delicate balancing act
Lammy and Starmer’s efforts to rebuild bridges with Trump reflect the geopolitical realities of the U.K.’s post-Brexit position. With the nation seeking to solidify trade deals and partnerships outside the European Union, a strong relationship with the U.S. is seen as essential.
Still, Lammy’s abrupt pivot has drawn criticism from some quarters, with skeptics accusing him of sacrificing principles for pragmatism. Whether the charm offensive pays off will depend on the policies and tone Trump adopts as he begins his second term.
For now, the world is watching as Britain’s leaders navigate this new chapter in the “special relationship.”