Flattery gets Starmer somewhere as The Donald stays awake to toot tariff deal | John Crace

TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:

"UK and US Announce Trade Deal Amid Mixed Reactions and Political Maneuvering"

Flattery gets Starmer somewhere as The Donald stays awake to toot tariff deal | John Crace analysis cover image The Guardian 5.7
Image Source: https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/7d5b459926ed240a42de52db8fcdbf1b5d088d9e/843_61_5201_4161/master/5201.jpg?width=1200&height=630&quality=85&auto=format&fit=crop&overlay-align=bottom%2Cleft&overlay-width=100p&overlay-base64=L2ltZy9zdGF0aWMvb3ZlcmxheXMvdGctb3BpbmlvbnMucG5n&enable=upscale&s=4535ab939d10edee4e26aceb6b61c45d
Original Article Source: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/may/08/keir-starmer-donald-trump-tariffs-trade-deal-politics-sketch
View Raw Article Source (External Link)
Raw Article Publish Date:
AI Analysis Average Score: 5.7
These scores (0-10 scale) are generated by Truthlens AI's analysis, assessing the article's objectivity, accuracy, and transparency. Higher scores indicate better alignment with journalistic standards. Hover over chart points for metric details.

TruthLens AI Summary

In a recent announcement, Donald Trump proclaimed that the United States and the United Kingdom had reached a comprehensive trade deal, which he characterized as potentially the 'greatest announcement' in history. However, as the details emerged, it became apparent that the agreement was not as transformative as anticipated. In fact, it appeared that the UK had secured a deal that was less favorable than previous arrangements, primarily reversing some negative impacts from earlier US trade policies. Despite the lack of significant advancements, Keir Starmer, the UK's Prime Minister, recognized the necessity of achieving a deal, especially as it represented a better outcome than what other nations had been able to negotiate with the US. Both leaders seemed eager to declare victory, albeit for different reasons, as Trump sought to maintain his image as a successful deal-maker amidst growing concerns from the American public regarding the lack of substantial agreements under his administration.

The announcement was marked by a carefully orchestrated phone call between Trump and Starmer, followed by press conferences where both leaders expressed optimism. Starmer, drawing parallels to Winston Churchill, emphasized the historic nature of the day, coinciding with VE Day. Trump, with his characteristic style, required flattery to remain engaged during the call, which Starmer provided generously. The event was further dramatized by the presence of Trump's commerce secretary, who praised the president's negotiating prowess, despite the deal's limited scope. Back in the UK, Starmer celebrated the agreement, claiming it secured Britain's economic future and marked a new era of prosperity. While some critics suggested that Starmer should have taken a firmer stance against Trump, his approach ultimately resulted in a deal that, although not as strong as hoped, was seen as a personal victory for him amidst a challenging political landscape.

TruthLens AI Analysis

The article provides a critical examination of the recent trade deal announced between the US and the UK, emphasizing the perceptions surrounding the announcement made by Donald Trump and the response from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The analysis focuses on the implications of the deal and the political maneuvering involved.

Perception of the Announcement

The language used in the article suggests that the announcement of a "full and comprehensive trade deal" is met with skepticism. The author implies that the deal may not live up to the grand claims made by Trump, highlighting that it could be a regression rather than a progression in trade relations, especially given the previous damage caused by US tariffs. This framing aims to shape public perception by presenting the deal as subpar, thus potentially undermining the credibility of both leaders involved.

Political Context

Keir Starmer's position is portrayed as one of pragmatism, where he is willing to accept a deal even if it is not ideal. The article suggests that both leaders were in a desperate need for a successful announcement, implying that the deal was more a matter of political necessity than genuine progress. This context raises questions about the efficacy of the negotiation process and the motivations behind the deal.

Choreography of the Announcement

The article describes the staged nature of the announcement, including the coordinated press coverage and timing, which seems designed to create a favorable narrative for both parties. The mention of Trump's unpredictable nature adds a layer of uncertainty, indicating that the deal could still be at risk of reversal. This element of the narrative emphasizes the fragility of political agreements and the dramatic flair often associated with Trump's leadership style.

Implications for Stakeholders

The implications of the trade deal for various stakeholders, including businesses and the general public, could be significant. While the article does not delve deeply into potential economic impacts, it suggests that the deal may be more about optics than substance, which could lead to disappointment among those expecting tangible benefits. The uncertainty surrounding future tariffs also poses a risk for market stability.

Audience Targeting

The article seems to resonate more with politically engaged audiences who are critical of both Trump and Starmer. It may aim to appeal to those who value transparency and accountability in political dealings, thereby fostering a sense of skepticism about government announcements that lack substantive backing.

Market Impact

Regarding market implications, the article hints at the potential for volatility in financial markets due to the uncertain nature of the trade agreement. Stocks related to sectors affected by tariffs and trade relations could see fluctuations based on how the deal is perceived and whether it translates into real economic benefits.

Global Power Dynamics

In the context of global power dynamics, the article suggests that the trade deal may not significantly alter the balance of power between the US and the UK. Instead, it may reinforce existing tensions and dependencies, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges posed by global trade wars.

Use of AI in Writing

It is possible that AI tools were utilized in crafting the article, particularly in structuring the narrative and selecting impactful language. The style of writing demonstrates a level of coherence and engagement that could be enhanced by AI models, guiding the tone and focus towards critical analysis.

Ultimately, the article presents an opportunity to critically evaluate the political landscape surrounding the trade deal while raising questions about its authenticity and effectiveness. The framing invites readers to reflect on the broader implications of such agreements and the nature of political rhetoric.

Unanalyzed Article Content

Source URL: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/may/08/keir-starmer-donald-trump-tariffs-trade-deal-politics-sketch

Three days ago,Donald Trumppromised an announcement that would be very possibly the greatest announcement in the whole history of announcements. Come Thursday morning, he said the US and the UK had reached a full and comprehensive trade deal.

I guess a lot depends on what you mean by the words “greatest announcement” and “full and comprehensive”. As details of the deal began to emerge, it rather looked as if the UK had managed to negotiate a worse deal with the US than we had even two months ago. One that was hardly transformative. Just reversing some of the damage that had been done to the UK by the US starting a global trade war. Tariffs as a protection racket.

Still, a deal is a deal. These days,Keir Starmerhas learned you get what you can get. And it’s more than any other country has got so far. It remains to be seen if others come out of the White House with anything better. But Keir wasn’t the only one who needed a quick result. Trump did, too. He had a reputation to maintain as a deal-maker and Americans were beginning to get twitchy that none had been reached. It wasn’t clear if this was a victory for crack negotiating teams, or a sign that both the US and the UK had been a bit desperate. So both sides were keen to chalk the deal up as a win for themselves.

Then there was the choreography to think of. A televised phone call between the president and the prime minister, before each gave separate press conferences. In both instances it was Agent Orange to go first. Presumably, because no one was sure he could stick to the script. When you do a deal with The Donald, there’s no guarantee he isn’t going to change his mind before the ink is dry. It would be no surprise if he were to announce new tariffs by the weekend.

Cut to the Oval Office where, 45 minutes later than planned, Trump was on the phone to Starmer. Bizarrely, he started by talking about rare-earth minerals, which weren’t part of the deal. He seemed to have forgotten what had been agreed with whom. His minders set him back on track and there were warm words about one of America’s greatest and most cherished allies. You wondered why he had previously treated the UK with indifference if he cared so much.

“This is an historic day,” said Starmer. All the more so because it had happened on VE Day. Keir could almost believe he was Winston Churchill addressing a jubilant nation after six years of war. At this point, it looked as if Agent Orange might drop off.

Trump’s powers of concentration aren’t all they might be and he finds it difficult when he’s not the centre of attention. Keir did his best to stop the president from flatlining by showering him with flattery. The Donald had been the best. Everyone and everything would be nothing without him.

At this, Trump began to perk up. The US and the UK had been working for years on a trade deal. People had said it couldn’t be done, he boasted. And yet he had done it in a matter of weeks. Truly, he was incredible. He didn’t seem to realise that he hadn’t negotiated a full trade agreement. Just a small side hustle encompassing a few sectors. There was a ripple of applause from the sycophants in the Oval Office when Trump managed to press the right switch to disconnect the call.

The Donald then invited his commerce secretary, Howard Lutnik, to expand a little on the deal. Howie is reportedly a billionaire but he also delivers a pitch-perfect impersonation of a halfwit. It’s hard to imagine him in a room negotiating the sale of a secondhand car. “This was the president’s deal,” he cooed. “If it had been left to me, it would have taken at least three years. He did everything. He is the closer.” Imagine. Howie had just told the entire world he had been out of his depth in a puddle. Truly, the world is fucked if he is one of its masters.

Next up was the British ambassador,Peter Mandelson. Bowing deeply. Full of reverence. Mandy was born for days like these. When all that is required is oleaginous smooth-talking masquerading as sincerity. Truly, The Donald was nothing short of a genius. He wasn’t fit to wipe the president’s shoes. Trump had achieved more than anyone else in the history of the world. Thank you, thank you. We have reached the end of the beginning, he sobbed. Everyone was getting in on the Churchill act this VE Day. Trump nodded. Mandy was right about him.

Back in the UK, Starmer was just starting his own press conference at the Jaguar Land Rover factory. Britain was open for business, he said. No less than the whole future of the UK had been saved. Keir, alone, had altered the course of history. Some men are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them. Keir had managed all three. This was bigger than VE Day. Bring out the bunting. Drink the pubs dry. We were entering a new era of prosperity.

This wasn’t just a victory for the UK. It was a victory for Starmer personally. Some people had said he should stand up to Agent Orange. Put the phone down. Don’t give in to bullies. But Keir had emerged triumphant. His brown-nosing had achieved the impossible. Which was, er … not quite as good as the deal we had not so long ago. It was time for the king to get out his silk pyjamas, line up the Diet Cokes and the Haribos and prepare for his sleepover with the president. If Keir had to suck it up, then so could Charles.

Back to Home
Source: The Guardian