The concept of the special relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States has been a cornerstone of British foreign policy for decades. From wartime alliances to economic and cultural exchanges, the transatlantic bond has shaped both nations in profound ways. However, in light of recent political developments particularly the re-election of Donald Trump the UK must critically reassess its priorities.
Aligning too closely with a leadership that disregards international norms, promotes division, and actively undermines global cooperation is not merely unwise; it is a threat to Britains own moral and strategic standing. Now is the time for the UK to pivot towards a stronger, more engaged relationship with Europe, reinforcing its ties with allies that share its values of democracy, human rights, and economic stability.
The Diminishing Value of the Special Relationship
The term special relationship originated from a speech by Winston Churchill in 1946, symbolising a deep, historic alliance between the UK and the US, founded on shared values and mutual interests. However, while this bond has been significant, it has always been asymmetric, often favouring American interests over British ones.
This imbalance has only grown in recent years, particularly during Donald Trumps presidency, which was characterised by protectionist trade policies, withdrawal from international agreements, and a disregard for traditional diplomatic norms. His return now to office presents a fresh challenge one that the UK cannot afford to ignore.
Trumps leadership has been unpredictable and self-serving, demonstrating little regard for the interests of allies. From imposing tariffs on British goods to undermining NATO and withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement, his policies have often been at odds with the UKs strategic priorities. More concerning is his open hostility towards international cooperation, which directly conflicts with Britains need for stability and multilateral engagement.
A Trump presidency will intensify these challenges, pushing an America First agenda that disregards traditional alliances in favour of short-term political gains. The UK must therefore ask itself: does it truly benefit from tying itself to an administration that has proven unreliable and, at times, openly hostile?
The Economic and Strategic Risks of Overreliance on the US
For decades, British policymakers have viewed the US as a critical economic and security partner. Yet, the reality is that the UKs economic future is increasingly tied to Europe, not America.
While the US remains an important trading partner, Brexit has placed new urgency on strengthening ties with the European Union and other key global markets. The EU remains the UKs largest trading partner, accounting for nearly half of all exports. By contrast, the US-UK trade relationship, though valuable, has been fraught with complications. Despite the rhetoric of a great trade deal with the US, the reality has been far less promising. The UK has received little in return for its unwavering loyalty to Washington, and under Trumps leadership, any hopes for a favourable trade agreement are likely to be further diminished.
Additionally, Trumps economic policies have historically been driven by short-term nationalism rather than long-term cooperation. His erratic approach to trade and foreign relations, including his tendency to impose punitive tariffs on allies, demonstrates that the UK cannot afford to rely on American goodwill. A Trump administration will bring further economic unpredictability, putting British industries, from agriculture to finance, at significant risk.
From a strategic standpoint, the US under Trump has also demonstrated a lack of commitment to European security. His past threats to weaken NATO, his admiration for authoritarian leaders, and his dismissive attitude toward traditional alliances raise serious concerns. If the UK continues to prioritise a relationship with an unpredictable and isolationist America, it risks being left exposed on the global stage.
The Case for a Stronger Relationship with Europe
The UK must now focus on rebuilding and strengthening its ties with Europe. While Brexit has altered the formal relationship with the EU, it has not erased the geographic, economic, and cultural bonds that unite Britain with its European neighbours.
A more engaged and cooperative approach to Europe is essential for several reasons:
1. Economic Stability and Growth
The EU remains the UKs most significant trading partner, and a closer relationship could bring tangible economic benefits. From improved market access to regulatory alignment, rebuilding economic ties with Europe would provide greater long-term stability than any potential trade deal with a volatile US administration.
2. Security and Defence Cooperation
The security threats facing Europe, from Russian aggression to cyber warfare, require a unified response. By strengthening its ties with European defence initiatives and reinforcing cooperation with NATO, the UK can ensure its security in a way that does not depend on the whims of a US president.
3. Climate and Environmental Leadership
The fight against climate change is a global effort, and the EU has positioned itself as a leader in this arena. Trumps history of climate scepticism and policy rollbacks should serve as a warning, the UK must work with Europe to drive meaningful environmental policies and global sustainability efforts.
4. Cultural and Social Alignment
Europe and the UK share deep cultural, historical, and social ties. A renewed commitment to collaboration, from research and education to tourism and the arts, would benefit both the UK economy and its global influence.
While Brexit was framed as a move towards independence, true sovereignty comes from having strong, reliable partnerships. A renewed and pragmatic engagement with Europe does not mean reversing Brexit; it means recognising the mutual benefits of closer cooperation. However, calls to rejoin the EU are very loud now and over 60% of the population wish to rejoin, with a further 20% saying they wish for far closer ties.
A Defining Moment for British Foreign Policy
The UK is at a crossroads. The world is changing, and the decisions made now will shape its future role on the global stage. The notion of a special relationship with the United States has always been based on a shared commitment to democracy, international stability, and economic progress. However, with Trump now re-elected, it is very clear that the US is moving in a different direction one that is inward-looking, unpredictable, and detached from the values Britain holds dear.
In this defining moment, Britain must choose its path wisely. Clinging to outdated notions of transatlantic loyalty at the expense of its own interests would be a strategic error. Instead, the UK should embrace a forward-thinking approach that prioritises its natural allies in Europe, partners that share a commitment to democratic values, economic cooperation, and global stability.
The special relationship with the US has long been a pillar of British foreign policy, but no relationship should be maintained at any cost. The UK must now act in its own best interests by forging deeper ties with Europe, ensuring a future that is secure, prosperous, and aligned with its core values.
