During a recent press conference in Scotland, U.S. President Donald Trump criticized London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, stating that he is “not a fan” of Khan, whom he labeled “a nasty person” and accused of performing poorly in his role. Despite this, Trump indicated he would still “certainly” visit London in the future.
These comments came as Trump was on a four-day, informal summer visit to Scotland, which included stops at his golf resorts. His criticism of Khan follows previous comments where he referred to the mayor as a “stone-cold loser.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, present at the conference, defended Khan by remarking, “He’s a friend of mine, actually,” showing his support amidst the tension.
In response to Trump’s remarks, a spokesperson for Khan expressed that the mayor is “delighted” about Trump’s potential visit to what he referred to as “the greatest city in the world.”
ReutersA spokesperson further mentioned, “He’d witness how our diversity enhances our strength and richness, rather than detracting from it. This could explain why so many Americans have sought British citizenship during his presidency.”
At the press conference, held at a Trump-owned golf resort in Turnberry, the president was queried about his plans to visit London during an upcoming state visit. Trump responded candidly, saying, “I’m not a fan of your mayor. He’s done a terrible job.”
In a notable development, Trump has accepted King Charles III’s invitation for a second state visit, which is set to occur from September 17 to 19, 2025, including a stay at Windsor Castle alongside First Lady Melania Trump.
EPAThe White House characterized the trip to Scotland as “private,” mainly focused on visiting Trump’s golf properties in Aberdeenshire and South Ayrshire. This is not the inaugural instance of Trump’s criticisms directed at Sir Sadiq Khan.
Previously, in 2019, Trump labeled the mayor—a title Khan has held since his re-election in 2024—a “stone-cold loser” and suggested he ought to direct his attention to crime issues in London. These remarks followed a direct confrontation upon Trump’s arrival in the UK.
Trump has a history of challenging Khan, even proposing an IQ test after Khan’s critique during a visit following the London Bridge attack in 2017.