US President Donald Trump stated that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will resign, citing major failures on immigration and energy policy, specifically the refusal to expand North Sea oil production.
On Truth Social, President Donald Trump declared that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will resign, claiming he had failed badly on two critical issues: immigration and energy policy.
Trump specifically criticized Starmer for not opening the North Sea to increased oil production and ended the post by wishing him well.
The statement comes as UK media report Starmer is expected to announce a timetable for his departure as early as Monday, June 22, amid a Labour Party leadership crisis.
Multiple cabinet resignations, poor local election results, and a strong by-election performance by rival Andy Burnham have intensified pressure on the prime minister.
Immigration Record Under Fire
Trump’s criticism targets Starmer’s handling of immigration. Net migration fell to 171,000 in 2025, the lowest since the COVID period and a sharp drop from peaks above 900,000 under the previous Conservative government.
The Labor government introduced a 2025 white paper with measures to raise skill thresholds for visas, tighten English language requirements, extend settlement periods, and restrict overseas recruitment in sectors such as social care.
These changes contributed to a decline in non-EU work visas.
Critics, including Trump, argue the reforms were implemented too slowly and did not go far enough to address public concerns over housing, public services, and cultural integration.
Small boat crossings in the English Channel and asylum-processing backlogs remain persistent challenges despite increased deportations and tougher enforcement measures.
United Kingdom Prime MInister, Keir Starmer. PHOTO/Keir Starmer-X
Energy Policy and North Sea Oil
Trump has repeatedly urged Starmer to “open up” the North Sea for increased oil and gas extraction, arguing that doing so would strengthen energy security and help reduce costs.
Labour’s approachhas instead focused on renewable energy and the transition to net-zero emissions, while offering limited support for new fossil fuel licensing in line with its climate commitments.
Opposition parties claim this strategy has contributed to higher energy prices and left the country vulnerable to external shocks, particularly following global supply disruptions.
Calls to approve projects such as the Rosebank oil field have intensified amid rising costs, but the government has resisted major policy shifts toward expanded drilling.
Starmer’s political position has weakened significantly in recent weeks. Reports indicate he is facing mounting pressure from Labour MPs to step aside in favor of Andy Burnham, who secured a decisive victory in the Makerfield by-election and now holds a seat in Parliament.
Cabinet ministers are said to have held frank discussions with the prime minister, with some viewing his departure as increasingly likely.
A government source has pushed back against the speculation, insisting Starmer remains “focused on the job.” However, betting markets and several senior Labour figures suggest an announcement regarding his future could come as early as Monday.
Lydia Celestine Opee is an International News Correspondent for The Kenya Times with experience covering international political developments, breaking news, and trending stories for online audiences. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Media, and Communication and is currently completing her Master’s in Communication Studies. She specializes in monitoring global news, verifying viral content, and producing timely, fact-based reporting that engages readers across borders. Her work spans politics, human-interest stories, and major international events, with a focus on accuracy and straight news reporting. She can be reached at [email protected]
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