Chris Mason: How Lammy and Vance’s unlikely friendship is being leveraged

Chris Mason: How Lammy and Vance’s Unlikely Friendship is Being Leveraged

Donald Trump has launched a steady stream of public critiques against the UK’s prime minister, with Sir Keir Starmer responding to these attacks in recent weeks. Yet, amid the political tension, a unique bond between the two nations’ key deputies has emerged, offering a subtle counterbalance to the discord. David Lammy, the justice secretary and deputy prime minister, recently met with JD Vance, the US vice-president, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the White House. Each session ran for approximately 45 minutes, focusing on critical issues such as conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.

While the foreign secretary typically oversees such discussions, the government has emphasized Lammy’s rapport with Vance as a strategic asset. This connection began during Lammy’s time as an opposition member, when Vance was newly elected to the Senate. Last summer, the vice-president and his family spent time at Lammy’s official residence, Chevening in Kent, during a UK visit. On X, Lammy shared a reflection on their meeting: “Great to catch up with my friend JD Vance today in DC following his talks in Pakistan.” A photograph of their handshake accompanied the post, with the caption highlighting shared goals: “It is vital that the ceasefire continues and we get shipping flowing freely again through the Straits of Hormuz. We continue to work together towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.”

Meanwhile, the prime minister reiterated his stance on Trump’s rhetoric, criticizing the US leader’s inflammatory language. During a speech to MPs, Starmer clarified: “In relation to the language about destroying a civilisation, could I really be clear with this House – that was wrong.” He emphasized the harm inflicted on Iranian civilians by the regime, adding that such phrasing would not represent the UK government. The leader also contrasted Trump and Vladimir Putin, stating he was “fed up with the fact that families across the country see their bills go up and down… because of the actions of Putin or Trump.”

Though details of Lammy and Vance’s exchanges remain scarce, the policy contrasts between the UK and US are evident. Trump has repeatedly singled out Starmer, calling him “not Winston Churchill,” while the UK has opted not to join the US in blocking Iranian ports. This dynamic underscores how the warmth between the deputies might serve as a bridge in an otherwise frosty relationship between the leaders.

“A threat to Iranian civilians in that way is wrong.”

“Could I really be clear with this House – that was wrong.”

“In relation to the language about destroying a civilisation, could I really be clear with this House – that was wrong.”