The so-called “special relationship” between the United States and Britain appears to be heading into rocky waters, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer signaling that his government may reevaluate its security partnership with the U.S. if President Trump, the incoming president, does not distance himself from Elon Musk’s recent controversial remarks.
The kerfuffle began when Musk, an influential Trump ally and CEO of X (formerly Twitter), blasted the British government for its handling of the grooming gang scandals and its treatment of anti-Islam activist Tommy Robinson. Musk went so far as to post a poll asking his 211 million followers if the United States should “liberate Britain from their tyrannical government.” Over 1.8 million users voted, with 58 percent favoring “liberation.”
According to BBC Newsnight, Britain's socialist government are considering ending their security partnership with the U.S. unless Donald Trump distances himself from Elon Musk's views on grooming gangs.pic.twitter.com/024Qbg1iaH
— Ben Kew (@ben_kew) January 7, 2025
Downing Street is reportedly alarmed. BBC reporter Nick Watt revealed that the British government is conducting a “hard-headed assessment” to determine whether Musk’s incendiary language reflects his personal views or signals a broader stance within the incoming Trump administration. Defense Secretary John Healey underscored the significance of the UK-US security partnership, citing its critical role in the Five Eyes intelligence alliance. “Can you have that level of sharing everything if this sort of stuff is endorsed by the next President of the United States?” Watt asked, reflecting widespread concerns.
Starmer, clearly rattled by Musk’s criticisms, responded during an event on Monday without mentioning Musk by name. “Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and wide as possible, they’re not interested in victims,” Starmer said. “They’re interested in themselves.”
While Musk’s comments have thrown fuel on the fire, the British government’s refusal to hold an inquiry into grooming gangs—whose victims were overwhelmingly white British girls targeted by mostly Pakistani men—has stoked anger across both sides of the Atlantic. Critics argue that Starmer’s administration is more interested in suppressing dissent than addressing systemic failures. Musk’s online tirades, though blunt, have tapped into frustrations many feel about Britain’s political leadership.
As of now, Trump has stayed silent on the issue, likely weighing whether to wade into a controversy with significant geopolitical stakes. The outcome could determine the future of a relationship that has been a cornerstone of Western security for decades. For now, the cracks in the “special relationship” are showing—and widening.
Throw their tea overboard and into the sea. Britain needs us more than we need them!