Chris Mason: How Lammy and Vance’s unlikely friendship is being leveraged
Chris Mason: How Lammy and Vance’s Unlikely Friendship is Being Leveraged
Recent weeks have seen a steady stream of sharp criticism from Donald Trump directed at the UK prime minister, with Sir Keir Starmer responding publicly to the US president’s remarks. Yet, the personal bond between the two leaders’ key aides continues to grow, despite the political tension. David Lammy, the deputy prime minister and justice secretary, recently traveled to Washington for meetings with American Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, each lasting approximately 45 minutes. The discussions centered on ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.
Despite the focus on these regions, the attention has shifted to Lammy’s rapport with Vance, rather than the foreign secretary. Lammy, who previously held the foreign secretary role before it was reassigned to Yvette Cooper, is now seen as a crucial figure in this diplomatic connection. The relationship began years ago when Lammy was an opposition member and Vance was newly elected to the US Senate. Their friendship deepened during a summer visit to the UK, where Vance and his family stayed at Lammy’s official residence in Kent.
“Great to catch up with my friend JD Vance today in DC following his talks in Pakistan,” Lammy posted on X. “It is vital that the ceasefire continues and we get shipping flowing freely again through the Straits of Hormuz. We continue to work together towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.”
On the same day as these meetings, the prime minister reiterated his criticism of Trump’s rhetoric, particularly his claim that a “whole civilisation will die tonight.” Sir Keir expressed concern, stating to MPs, “could I really be clear with this House – that was wrong.” He emphasized that threats against Iranian civilians are misplaced, noting their long-standing suffering under the Iranian regime.
The prime minister has also highlighted the UK’s decision to stay out of the US-led sanctions on Iranian ports, further distancing himself from Trump’s approach. While Trump has repeatedly mocked the prime minister, comparing him to “not Winston Churchill,” the government sees value in Lammy’s connection with Vance. This dynamic may help ease tensions between the UK and US, even as their leaders remain frosty.