Trump tells Starmer what he really thinks of him with controversial move

King Charles will be hosting a state banquet at Windsor Castle later this month, but the guest list has already stirred political waves. US President Donald Trump, who will attend the banquet with First Lady Melania Trump from September 17 to 19, has made a controversial addition to his delegation.

Trump has invited Dame Karen Pierce, the former UK ambassador to Washington, to join the American side of the banquet. This move has raised eyebrows, as it could be interpreted as a direct challenge to Britain’s current ambassador to the US, Lord Peter Mandelson.

Lord Mandelson, a close ally of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, was nominated for the role last December and officially took office in February. His appointment frustrated Trump, who had hoped Dame Karen would remain in her role well into his second term. She is widely respected in Washington and considered one of Trump’s trusted allies.

The tension is further heightened by Mandelson’s previous criticisms of Trump, including remarks labeling him “a danger to the world” and “little short of a white nationalist.” In contrast, Dame Karen has often been praised in Washington for her sharp diplomatic skills, straightforward approach, and close working relationship with American officials.

Reports suggest Sir Keir Starmer did not directly inform the White House about Mandelson’s appointment, which Trump’s team only learned about through media leaks. Chris LaCivita, a senior Trump campaign adviser, criticized the change, saying it replaced “a professional, universally respected ambassador with an absolute moron.”

Since then, Lord Mandelson has been working to improve ties with Trump. During a visit to the White House, the President even complimented him as a “good-looking fellow.” However, Trump’s decision to extend a personal invitation to Dame Karen shows he still values her role in US-UK relations.

A source close to the matter explained:

“The President has always seen Karen as one of the UK’s strongest assets. He’s grown close to her over the years, so it felt only right that she’d be there alongside Peter during his second state visit.”

Dame Karen, often described as “fiercely intelligent” and known for her candid diplomacy, served as Britain’s ambassador to Washington from 2020 until February 2025. Her presence at Windsor Castle is expected to draw as much attention as the banquet itself.