Vice President JD Vance struck a hopeful tone this week about a possible trade deal between the United States and the United Kingdom, offering reassurance to British leaders concerned about new U.S. tariffs. In an interview with the British news site UnHerd, Vance said President Trump “really loves” the U.K. and is eager to make a deal. He also praised the close ties between the two countries and said Trump’s admiration for King Charles III could help move talks forward, noted The New York Times.
Vance said he believes a strong agreement that benefits both nations is likely, and he confirmed that the White House is already working with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s new government. But he didn’t share any details about what a deal might look like. Trade negotiations could be tricky. The U.K. is one of several countries trying to avoid new tariffs Trump brought back, including a 10% tax on British goods. Some British officials believe the U.S. may focus on a deal with Japan before turning to the U.K.
In the interview, Vance also softened his past criticism of Europe. While he once echoed far-right views that downplayed Europe’s role in global security, this time he took a friendlier approach. “I love Europe. I love European people,” he said, noting that American and European cultures are deeply connected. Still, he warned that European countries shouldn’t rely too heavily on the U.S. for defense. He made an exception for the U.K. and France, saying his earlier concerns were aimed at nations that don’t invest much in their own military.
There are still obstacles to a U.S.-U.K. trade deal. Past talks broke down over issues like food safety. British officials have pushed back hard against importing U.S. beef and chicken that’s been treated with chemicals or hormones that critics in the U.K. consider unsafe.
Vance’s choice to speak with UnHerd also raised eyebrows. The site is backed by Paul Marshall, a conservative media investor who has helped grow right-leaning news outlets in the U.K., including The Spectator and GB News.
While there’s no official trade deal in the works yet, Vance’s comments suggest a shift in tone from Washington—and possibly a fresh start for the U.S. and U.K. after years of rocky relations.
