Prime Minister Keir Starmer has faced a public rebuke from United States President Donald Trump, who called for the prime minister’s resignation and warned of potential tariffs on the United Kingdom. The comments, which emerged following a reported telephone call with the BBC, mark a significant escalation in rhetoric between the two leaders.

According to reports, President Trump stated that the prime minister “has to go” and that he “has no chance.” The remarks were made during a BBC phone call, in which Trump joined members of parliament in calling for Starmer’s resignation. The president’s criticism follows previous comparisons made by Starmer, who had reportedly likened Trump to former British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain rather than to Winston Churchill. Trump’s latest intervention represents a sharp increase in the war of words between the two governments.

The president also addressed the United Kingdom’s digital services tax, which imposes a 2% levy on revenues of major US technology companies. Trump warned that if the UK does not drop the tax, he would likely impose a “big tariff” on the country. He accused the UK and other nations of trying to “make an easy buck” by targeting American companies, stating, “We don’t like it when they target American companies because basically you’re talking about our great American companies.” He added that he has an obligation to protect US firms and that the UK should “be careful.”

The digital services tax was introduced in 2020 under the previous Conservative government to address the gap between revenue generated by British users for social media firms and the tax paid to the government. Trump characterized the legislation as designed to harm US interests and indicated that he would reciprocate with measures equal to or greater than what the UK is doing.

In addition to his remarks on trade, Trump commented on domestic UK issues, suggesting that Starmer could potentially recover politically if he addresses the immigration problem. The president has previously spoken about immigration and drilling in the North Sea, issues he has raised for years. Trump also criticized a personnel decision made by the prime minister, calling Peter Madison a “really bad pick.”

The president also addressed a comment made by Prince Harry, who had reportedly urged Trump to do more to end the war in Ukraine. When asked about the prince’s statement ahead of a visit, Trump responded dismissively. “Prince Harry is not speaking for the UK,” Trump said. “That’s for sure. I think I’m speaking for the UK more than Prince Harry.” He added, “I appreciate his advice very much,” before declining to elaborate further. Trump also asked about Prince Harry’s wife and sent his regards.

The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and the UK government under Starmer. The president’s comments come amid broader disputes over trade, immigration, and the role of American companies in the British market. Trump framed his stance as protective of US interests, stating, “I have to protect this country,” and referencing the strength of the US stock market during a period of conflict.

No official response from the prime minister’s office has been reported regarding Trump’s call for resignation. The exact timing and full contents of the BBC phone call remain unknown. The situation continues to develop as both governments navigate the implications of Trump’s warnings on tariffs and his public criticism of Starmer’s leadership.