As Donald Trump makes his return to power, trampling on the hard-won progress of democracy and human rights, it’s time for the United Kingdom to reconsider its “special relationship” with the United States. Here’s my solution: we need to let it go.
For too long, the UK has clung to the idea of standing by the U.S. — no matter who occupies the White House. We’ve seen this blind loyalty before: from Tony Blair’s unwavering support for George W. Bush, which led to the disastrous invasion of Iraq, to today, where British politicians are rushing to placate Trump.
But let’s be honest — Trump’s track record speaks for itself. He has consistently undermined democracy, praised authoritarian regimes, and sown division in his own country. He tried to overturn a legitimate election result, disrespected the free press, stoked tensions with minority groups, and even condoned violence from his supporters.
His policies have been catastrophic. From tearing children from their parents at the border to mishandling the COVID-19 crisis, from rolling back protections for LGBTQ+ people to chipping away at abortion rights, the list goes on. If any other country behaved like this, the UK would be the first to call it out. Yet, here we are, with politicians from all parties preparing to play nice with Trump.
This isn’t just a moral failure; it’s dangerously reckless. History has shown us that engaging with dictators only emboldens them. Just look at British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain’s appeasement of Adolf Hitler — a move that backfired in the worst way.
The UK prides itself on its commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. These values are what make our country great. But how can we reconcile that with our willingness to overlook Trump’s blatant disregard for these same principles?
We wouldn’t entertain a partnership with any other leader who abuses power — so why should we treat Trump differently?
Trump’s actions also pose significant risks on the global stage. He’s alienated allies, undermined NATO, and created openings for authoritarian regimes like Russia and China to take advantage. Meanwhile, our friends in Ukraine continue to fight for their survival, and Trump’s return to power could hand Vladimir Putin and other despots even more leverage.
The UK’s response to the Ukraine conflict has been commendable, but we can do more. And we must do more, especially when the prospect of Trump’s presidency threatens to undo the progress we’ve worked so hard for.
It’s troubling to see British politicians soften their stance on Trump. Figures like David Lammy, who once rightly criticized him, now praise him as “very affable” and “very warm.” It’s a stark reminder of how quickly even the harshest critics fall back in line when the U.S. flexes its muscles.
But it’s time for the UK to show moral courage and strategic clarity. We cannot continue to cling to a “special relationship” with a leader who has made no secret of his authoritarian ambitions. Diplomacy matters, but it should never come at the cost of our core values, human rights, and international stability.
We’ve repeatedly condemned authoritarianism in other parts of the world — now is the time for the UK to stand firm and say “enough is enough.” We cannot negotiate with a leader who openly mocks the very principles that make us who we are.
The United Kingdom has a moral and strategic responsibility to lead with integrity. We cannot pretend that we can work with a leader who threatens our values. If we truly value the principles on which our country was built, this is the moment to prove it. Anything less is a betrayal of our own ideals.
Let’s stand up for what matters — not just for the UK, but for the world.
