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The US president will arrive in the UK on Tuesday night amidst strong criticism from Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, who stated Trump of encouraging extremist politics worldwide.

Challenges to Starmer’s Approach

In what is seen as a direct challenge to PM Keir Starmer’s government, Khan asserted that Trump’s use of military in American cities and targeting of minorities resembled methods commonly used in an autocrat’s playbook.

Compounding the tensions ahead of the trip, a anticipated deal to remove trade barriers on British metal exports apparently collapsed at the final hour.

Formal and Informal Events

Throughout the visit, Trump is set to be hosted by the king and queen at the historic castle, with events including a walkthrough, a aerial display, and a formal dinner. Meetings with PM Starmer are planned for the following day at the prime minister’s retreat.

Although scheduled rallies against Trump, the schedule is designed in a way that may prevent the president from witnessing them. However, the visit presents significant potential backlash for Starmer, particularly during the anticipated public statements.

The Mayor’s Blunt Assessment

In a published article, Khan emphasized that while preserving good relations with the US is strategic, the UK should not hold back from challenging a leader who, according to him, has encouraged of divisive right-wing extremism globally.

“This conduct is not just inconsistent with democratic principles – they are typical of the authoritarian’s handbook.”

Khan, who previously sparred with Trump during his previous trip, also denounced the use of military force and removals lacking proper procedure.

Urging of Political Courage

Khan asserted that the unique partnership between the UK and US requires openness, even when it means being critical. He added that the country must stand against the politics of fear and division.

Khan also blamed elected officials and media outlets for not speaking out against growing hostility and discrimination, which he claimed contributed to a large protest in London days earlier.

“The scenes that occurred didn’t appear randomly. For an extended period, our politicians and pundits have refused to condemn the increase of intolerance in this country.”

Khan went on, “For our leaders, staying quiet is no longer sufficient. Now is the moment to speak out and declare: this is not what we stand for.”

Official Reaction

Prime Minister Starmer faced backlash for what some described as a slow response to the recent protest, which featured a address from tech mogul Elon Musk, who according to sources stated that “trouble is ahead” and encouraged the crowd to “fight back.”

Yet, in firm comments during a cabinet meeting, Starmer declared that the UK faced “the fight of our times” against polarization.

According to a recap of his remarks, Starmer told cabinet members that the attacks on police officers and a rally headed by a convicted criminal were not just shocking but also intimidating to many people, notably minority residents.

Varied Responses within Government

Early responses, Minister Peter Kyle stated that he was not disturbed by the scope of the event or the rhetoric used, claiming that it demonstrated that liberty and free association were alive and well in the UK.

But, a government representative subsequently clarified that while freedom of speech is a fundamental principle, numerous individuals felt scared by incitement of aggression and hateful speech.

Minister Wes Streeting, addressing an community organization, dismissed the notion that rising racism and homophobia could be defended as protected expression, labeling it “absurd.”

The minister went on, expressing empathy for those who doubt whether the government is supporting them, and affirming that the recent demonstration did not reflect the kind of country the public wish to live in.