Donald Trump embarked on another bizarre rant tonight, targeting Prime Minister Keir Starmer with an unusual accusation of 'windmilling the country to death'. The former US president made the comments after being pressed on whether Starmer should remain in office following Labour's poor election results.
Trump's Tirade on Energy Policy
Speaking to reporters as he left the White House, Trump claimed the UK is 'getting killed on energy' and urged Starmer to increase oil extraction in the North Sea. 'You're windmilling your country to death. Open up the North Sea. You have one of the greatest sources of energy in the world,' Trump said. He insisted that the UK is not utilising its oil reserves, which he described as 'among the best oils in the world'.
Trump's remarks came despite the fact that many traditional windmills in the UK are no longer operational or have been decommissioned for decades. Modern wind turbines, which are distinct from windmills, are used for renewable energy generation. According to recent data, oil accounted for over 34% of the UK's energy supply in 2022, while nuclear power contributed just over 8% and coal around 3%.
Starmer's Political Turmoil
The prime minister is currently facing a significant rebellion within his own party following disastrous local election results last week. Four ministers have resigned, and more than 80 MPs have publicly called for Starmer to step down. However, Starmer has reportedly told his cabinet that he will not resign.
When asked whether Starmer should stay or go, Trump avoided a direct answer, instead pivoting to criticise Starmer's stance on immigration. He claimed that 'Europe is being very, very hurt by immigration all over Europe'.
Trump also argued that focusing on renewable energy while neglecting oil and gas extraction in the North Sea is 'absolutely crazy'. He has previously claimed that wind turbines 'put you out of business'.
