Keir Starmer has voiced his worry regarding the tragic shooting of an American nurse by agents of ICE under the administration of Donald Trump.
The nurse, Alex Pretti, was fatally shot during a protest in Minneapolis, marking the second incident where ICE agents have been involved in fatal shootings in the city this month. Contrary to the Trump administration’s claims of a threat, eyewitnesses and video evidence revealed that Pretti was holding a phone, not a gun, before being taken down.
Responding to questions about the incident amidst global outrage over the tactics used by Trump’s ICE squads, Mr. Starmer expressed his concern while traveling to China. He stated, “I haven’t reviewed all the details, but what I have seen is troubling. Anyone viewing the footage would find it concerning, although I acknowledge I have not seen all the footage and information available.”
Publicly criticizing the sensitive US President is a rare move for the PM, who usually opts for private influence. However, strain in the relationship has been growing due to Trump’s controversial demands related to Greenland.
Mr. Starmer also called out Trump for disregarding the role of British forces in Afghanistan, sparking outrage in the UK. Trump falsely suggested that Nato forces remained behind the frontlines, insulting the 457 British troops who lost their lives.
In response to mounting pressure, Trump praised British forces but failed to issue a proper apology, stating on social media, “The brave soldiers of the United Kingdom will always stand with the United States. The UK military, with incredible dedication, is unmatched. We cherish and admire you all!”
Acknowledging the deaths of two protesters, Pretti and Renee Good, Trump expressed remorse for the incidents following backlash over his initial comments. Border chief Gregory Bovino, who referred to the deceased activists as “domestic terrorists,” was removed from his position, and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem was summoned to clarify her deportation decisions to Trump.
During an interview on Fox News, Trump claimed he disliked the killings and mentioned the support of Good’s parents for him. He expressed regret over the incidents and the impact on the families involved.