Keir Starmer has engaged in a conversation with Donald Trump today following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. The President and First Lady, Melania Trump, were swiftly escorted from the event as gunshots were heard, prompting chaos among attendees. The alleged shooter, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, from Torrance, California, reportedly carried a shotgun and a handgun.
The Prime Minister conveyed a message of support to President Trump earlier, and the two leaders spoke over the phone later in the day, as confirmed by Downing Street. During the call, the PM expressed well wishes to the President and First Lady in light of the distressing events at the dinner and wished a speedy recovery to the injured officer.
In a morning statement, the PM condemned any attack on democratic institutions or press freedom, emphasizing relief that the President, First Lady, and guests were unharmed. Top Cabinet Minister Darren Jones remarked on the situation, highlighting the PM’s solidarity message to the US President and the collaborative efforts to ensure security during the upcoming state visit of His Majesty the King.
Security concerns for the King’s safety during the state visit to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence have heightened following the shooting. Diplomatic circles are hopeful that the visit could help ease tensions in the US-UK relationship, given Mr. Trump’s fondness for the Royal Family. Tory Chris Philp called for an urgent review of the King’s security arrangements post the incident.
Mr. Jones reiterated the commitment to ensuring appropriate security measures for the King’s visit, emphasizing the seriousness with which the Government and the Palace view His Majesty’s safety. Pressed on the issue, he assured that adequate security measures would be in place based on the perceived risks.