Trump renews public feud with London mayor
During his state visit to the United Kingdom on 16–18 September 2025, President Donald Trump renewed his long-running public feud with London Mayor Sadiq Khan. While leaving the UK, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that he had asked that Mr Khan not be invited to some state events. He called the mayor “among the worst mayors in the world” and accused him of failing on crime and immigration.
🚨NEWS: when asked why Sadiq khan wasn’t at the Royal banquet on his state visit
President Trump says : “I didn’t want him there, I asked for him not to be there, I don’t want that”
Sadiq Khan the mayor of London wasn’t welcomed, and he did not attend. pic.twitter.com/Dy7A9Yl12Q
— The British Patriot (@TheBritLad) September 18, 2025
Trump made the remarks after a high-profile programme that included a news conference with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and meetings with King Charles. The visit featured major trade and investment announcements, but Trump’s comments drew fresh headlines and renewed political debate in Britain.
Why Trump criticized Khan and the reaction
Trump said he believed London had become less safe and blamed the mayor for rising crime and poor city management. He told journalists that he had “asked that he not be there” at certain ceremonial events. The mayor’s office has previously dismissed Trump’s comments as political theatre and distraction.
UK media covered the exchange widely. Some outlets noted that Trump’s remarks may have domestic political aims, while others highlighted diplomatic sensitivities tied to a state visit. Meanwhile, Londoners and political commentators reacted strongly on social media, splitting along partisan lines.
Historical context of the Trump–Khan spat
The Trump–Khan antagonism is deep-rooted. It goes back to 2016 when Khan publicly criticised Trump’s policies. Since then, both have traded barbs during major political moments. This latest episode simply continues a long pattern of rhetorical clashes, now re-ignited on British soil during a formal state visit. Observers say the spat highlights how personalities can shape media narratives during major diplomatic events.
What do Londoners think about Sadiq Khan
Londoners are divided on Sadiq Khan’s leadership, with many appreciating his work on transport and diversity but criticizing him on crime, housing, and public safety. On grooming gangs specifically, Khan faces sharp criticism for refusing to commit to an independent inquiry and for giving evasive answers when questioned, which some see as a lack of accountability. Victims’ advocates and political opponents argue that he is not doing enough to ensure justice or transparency, while others believe his cautious stance reflects the sensitive racial and community dimensions of the issue. Overall, the public mood reflects frustration and a desire for stronger action, clearer communication, and greater protection for victims. He recently called Unite the Kingdom led by Tommy Robinson rally “racist and violent.” which made many patriot of Britain Angry.