A fleeting moment involving US President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a summit held in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, has triggered a series of reactions on the internet. At the event, Trump invited Starmer on stage, apparently to welcome him. But most internet users think that Starmer had something to say but was interrupted by Trump before he could utter any words.
Video of Alleged Snub Goes Viral on Social Media
A video clip of the moment has gone viral across X (formerly Twitter) and other social platforms. In the footage, Trump can be heard asking, “Where is the UK?” Starmer raises his hand, after which Trump gestures for him to come forward. Trump shakes his hand, says a few words, and sends him back to stand among the other leaders positioned behind him during the speech.
A netizen named James Hodson shared the viral video on X showing Keir Starmer shaking hands with Donald Trump.
Trump just made Starmer look even more stupid and irrelevant 😂 pic.twitter.com/o5WmaOH3HG
— James Hodson (@JamesHodson) October 13, 2025
Trump Says “It’s Nice That You’re Here” Before Sending Starmer Back
One popular post by the account Clash Report described the moment with the caption: “Starmer approached the podium. ‘It’s nice that you’re here,’ Trump said, then sent him back, offending Starmer.” Many interpreted this as a subtle dismissal rather than a friendly greeting.
Netizens Claim Giorgia Meloni’s Reaction Added to the Awkwardness
Some viewers also pointed out that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni appeared “amused” by the exchange. Memes and sarcastic comments quickly followed, with several users suggesting that Starmer looked visibly uncomfortable.
Online Mockery Adds Pressure on Starmer’s Already Struggling Leadership
This viral moment comes at a difficult time for Keir Starmer politically. Although he led Labour back to power in July last year after 14 years in opposition, his leadership is now under growing scrutiny.
Labour Party Faces Poll Drop as Reform Surges Ahead
Recent polls show Labour trailing the Reform Party by 12 points. Meanwhile, Starmer’s personal satisfaction ratings have fallen to the lowest ever recorded by Ipsos for a British prime minister since 1977.
Policy U-Turns and Economic Fears Mar Starmer’s Reputation
Even though he has been praised globally for leading European coordination of support for Ukraine, Starmer has had challenges at home. Fears of a tax-burdened budget, u-turns on welfare policy reforms, and canceled energy discounts for pensioners have fueled criticism. Record numbers of illegal migrants arriving in the Channel have also increased popularity for his rivals.
Cabinet Resignations and Controversies Deepen Political Crisis
Starmer’s bid to restore order was further disrupted in September after Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner quit in protest at unpaid council tax on a property. Shortly afterward, he sacked UK ambassador in Washington, Peter Mandelson, amid new allegations of his association with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Experts Warn Starmer’s Premiership Is Fading
His leadership is in crisis,” political scientist Steven Fielding said to AFP this year a phrase that now takes on added pertinence as global optics start to reflect domestic discontent.
