Getty ImagesThe president's remarks follow weeks of criticism of the Sir Keir Starmer over his approach to the war against IranUS President Donald Trump has said America's trade deal with the UK "can always be changed".
"We gave them a good trade deal, better than I had to," the US president told Sky News on Wednesday, when asked about the state of the special relationship.
Trump, who has persistently criticised Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer since he refused to join the US-Israel war against Iran in late February, said the relationship had "been better".
But he said this would not overshadow King Charles and Queen Camilla's forthcoming state visit to the US.
Asked how he would describe the special relationship, the US president responded: "With who?"
Upon clarification by the reporter that he was referring to the UK, Trump said: "It's the relationship where when we asked them for help, they were not there. When we needed them, they were not there.
"When we didn't need them, they were not there. And they still aren't there."
Pressed further on the relationship, Trump said it had "been better, but it's sad".
"And we gave them a good trade deal. Better than I had to. Which can always be changed."
In May last year, the UK became the first country to agree a tariff deal with President Trump after his return to office, cutting some import taxes on cars, aluminium and steel.
The relationship between the two countries' leaders has in recent weeks shown signs of strain over the Middle East. Trump has frequently criticised Sir Keir over his approach to the war, including on one occasion calling him "no Winston Churchill".
Earlier in the call, Trump said he "liked Starmer" but branded his government's immigration and energy policies "insane".
However, he said the state of their relationship would not "at all" overshadow the upcoming royal state visit.
"I've known the King for a long time, and he's not involved in that process," Trump said.
Asked what he was most looking forward to ahead of late April's royal visit, he responded: "Just being with him. I've known him for a long time. He's wonderful."
