London Mayor Sadiq Khan Renews Criticism of Trump During UK Visit
London’s Muslim mayor, Sadiq Khan, has renewed his criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump, publishing an article in The Guardian that coincides with Trump’s official visit to Britain.
According to BBC Persian, the dispute between the two men stretches back to Trump’s previous presidency, marked by multiple exchanges of sharp words. Khan has long accused Trump of fueling far-right and divisive politics, while Trump has dismissed the mayor’s critiques by pointing to London’s governance challenges.
In his latest op-ed, Khan wrote that Trump has “probably played the greatest role in fanning the flames of far-right divisive politics globally” in recent years. He also likened Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard to U.S. cities to the actions of authoritarian rulers.
The mayor emphasized that while Britain must maintain its close ties with the United States, the so-called “special relationship” should not mean unconditional approval of U.S. policies. “Sometimes the truth must be spoken plainly,” he noted, stressing that he opposes policies that spread fear and division, even as he acknowledges the pragmatic necessity of strong U.S.-UK relations.
The BBC report highlighted that no meeting between Khan and Trump is planned during this visit. Analysts argue that Khan’s remarks reflect both his longstanding personal clash with Trump and broader European unease with U.S. policies under his leadership.
Commentators also suggest that the mayor’s outspoken stance underscores the role of dissenting voices in international relations, particularly at a time when Trump’s policies continue to polarize global opinion.
