Starmer and Trump Agree to Accelerate UK-US Trade Talks as Car Tariffs Loom

The leaders discussed ongoing negotiations for an economic prosperity deal, aiming to counteract the impact of a 25% US tariff on imported cars set to begin April 2.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump held a phone call on March 30, agreeing to expedite discussions on a UK-US trade deal.
The planned 25% tariff on imported cars, effective April 2, threatens significant economic repercussions for UK car manufacturers like Jaguar Land Rover and Aston Martin.
The UK government has opted not to retaliate against US tariffs, including those on steel and aluminum, focusing instead on securing a favorable trade agreement.
Trump has framed the tariffs as part of a broader strategy to reshape global trade, with similar measures targeting China, Mexico, and Canada.
Starmer is also balancing his role in European-led peace initiatives for Ukraine, as US support for Ukraine under Trump appears increasingly uncertain.