On a diplomatic trip that had more layers than it seemed, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer managed to send a subtle message to Donald Trump — all while sipping a beer in Ottawa.
During his visit to Canada, Starmer emphasized the country’s independence and sovereignty, carefully countering Trump’s recent controversial suggestion that Canada should become part of the United States.
A Friendly Beer with Deeper Meaning
Starmer met with former Bank of England governor Mark Carney in Ottawa, where the two shared a beer in a local bar.
But it wasn’t all just small talk — they also discussed the potential of reviving a trade deal that had been put on pause.
This is the first time a British Prime Minister has visited Canada in eight years, and the trip comes just ahead of the upcoming G7 summit in Kananaskis, where Starmer will be rubbing shoulders with world leaders — including Trump himself.
Walking a Diplomatic Tightrope
Starmer has had to play his cards carefully. While he’s making it clear that he supports Canada’s sovereignty, he’s also trying not to provoke Trump — especially with trade negotiations between the UK and US still hanging in the balance.
When asked by reporters if he condemned Trump’s remarks about Canada becoming a US state, Starmer didn’t name names.
But his words were clear:
“Canada is an independent, sovereign nation, and quite right, too.”
He added that Canada and the US are both important allies and that the UK works closely with Canada on many fronts — from defence to training efforts in Ukraine.
A Push for Stronger UK-Canada Trade Ties
Beyond the politics, Starmer made it clear that one of his main goals is to reduce trade barriers between the UK and Canada.
Trade between the two countries is already worth around £28 billion, and both nations are part of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.
He stated:
“I’m really clear where we stand on that.
We want to strengthen our partnerships and make trade easier.”
Downing Street echoed this message, saying that Starmer’s trip is a chance to reinforce the UK’s role as a free and open trading nation, especially in an unpredictable global economy.
Carney’s Not-So-Subtle Opinion on Trump
Interestingly, Mark Carney — Starmer’s host in Ottawa — has been outspoken about Trump before.
Earlier this year, he criticized the UK’s decision to invite Trump for a second state visit, saying Canadians weren’t impressed by the gesture.
That adds another layer to the meeting between Starmer and Carney, especially with Trump expected to be at the G7 summit next week.
Starmer may have to balance his public diplomacy with some private political juggling.
What Comes Next?
All eyes will be on Starmer and Trump as they meet at the G7 summit.
While no major clash is expected, the diplomatic signals coming from Ottawa are loud and clear: Canada’s sovereignty isn’t up for debate — and the UK stands firmly behind that.
Meanwhile, the UK is pressing ahead to build stronger economic bridges with its global allies — Canada very much included.