Trump, Starmer split on UK plan to recognize Palestinian state

WASHINGTON, United States (MNTV) — US President Donald Trump said Thursday he disagrees with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer over London’s plan to recognize a Palestinian state, even as the two leaders highlighted their shared commitment to pursuing peace in the Middle East.

Speaking at a joint press conference in London after bilateral talks, Trump described the issue as “one of our few disagreements.” He reaffirmed Washington’s long-standing stance that recognition of Palestinian statehood should come only as part of a negotiated settlement with Israel.

Starmer confirmed that his government intends to move ahead with recognition, calling it part of a broader effort to revive diplomacy.

“We absolutely agree on the need for peace and a roadmap, because the situation in Gaza is intolerable,” he said.

Trump also used the appearance to voice frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war in Ukraine. 

“I thought Ukraine would be the easiest conflict to end because of my relationship with President Putin, but he’s let me down,” he said, adding that Moscow had rebuffed his attempts to end the fighting.

Despite their split on Palestinian statehood, both leaders stressed cooperation on wider global challenges. Trump praised Starmer as “a strong partner,” while acknowledging policy differences between Washington and London.

The meeting underscored diverging approaches among Western allies on how to address the question of Palestinian statehood, which has escalated as Gaza endures heavy bombardment and humanitarian collapse.