Chris Mason: How Lammy and Vance’s unlikely friendship is being leveraged

Chris Mason: How Lammy and Vance’s Unlikely Friendship is Being Leveraged

Despite ongoing public clashes between UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump, a notable connection has emerged between their respective deputies. David Lammy, the justice secretary for England and Wales and also serving as deputy prime minister, has been meeting with JD Vance, the US vice-president, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the White House. Each encounter lasted approximately 45 minutes, centering on discussions about conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. While the foreign secretary, a role Lammy previously held, might be expected to lead such talks, the focus has shifted to the personal rapport between the two aides.

The bond between Lammy and Vance, which began during Lammy’s time as an opposition member and Vance’s early days in the US Senate, has grown stronger. Last summer, Vance and his family stayed at Lammy’s official residence, Chevening in Kent, during a UK visit. Lammy shared a social media post highlighting the meeting, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a ceasefire and ensuring unimpeded trade through the Straits of Hormuz. He also mentioned their collaborative efforts in advancing peace in Ukraine, underscoring the significance of their partnership.

“It is vital that the ceasefire continues and we get shipping flowing freely again through the Straits of Hormuz,” Lammy wrote. “We continue to work together towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.”

Starmer has repeatedly criticized Trump’s rhetoric, including a remark about Iran where he claimed “a whole civilisation will die tonight.” In a parliamentary address, he clarified that such language was inappropriate, noting that civilians, who have endured years of hardship under the Iranian regime, should not be threatened in this manner. The prime minister also contrasted Trump’s and Putin’s policies, expressing frustration over how families across the UK face fluctuating costs due to their actions.

Although specifics of Lammy and Vance’s conversations remain undisclosed, the policy divergence between the UK and US governments is evident. Starmer has reiterated the UK’s decision to avoid involvement in America’s sanctions on Iranian ports. Meanwhile, Trump has consistently criticized Starmer, even suggesting he lacks the leadership of Winston Churchill. The deputies’ warm relationship, however, offers a potential bridge in an otherwise tense dynamic between their leaders.