Trump aims for control over an Afghan airbase as Nvidia agreement fortifies U.S. alliance with the UK
During his recent state visit to the UK, former President Donald Trump made a series of significant statements and announcements. The visit, which was filled with reporters, saw the cementing of the trade deal and the reinforcement of one of the world's oldest alliances between Britain and America.
Trump expressed his gratitude for the hospitality shown during his visit, but the security for the state visit is expected to cost over £10 million. The security measures included police horses and a platoon of SAS-style armed police.
One of the key highlights of the visit was the signing of the "Tech Prosperity Deal" at UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's residence in Chequers. Microsoft announced a $30 billion package as part of the deal, while Google is investing £5 billion for AI research and infrastructure.
Nvidia, a leading tech company, also announced a significant investment of £11 billion to build a supercomputer in the UK. In addition, Nvidia is investing £500 million to build more data centers and help with AI in Britain.
Trump's comments about the Bagram airbase and the war in Ukraine were also made during the visit. He suggested that ending the war in Ukraine could be achieved by stopping oil purchases from Russia, including from European countries. However, he did not specify the last planned joint occupation of Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan.
The return to Bagram signifies the US and UK's continued united endeavor in an increasingly polarized world. The US and UK stood together in 2001 to take on the Taliban, resulting in a high rate of Afghan deaths, troop casualties, and a loss of capital.
Despite their disagreement over recognizing a Palestinian state and the drilling of North Sea oil, Trump's visit to the UK was professional and lacked hostility towards Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Trump stated that the UK-US alliance has done "more good on this planet than any two nations in human history".
The visit ended with Trump stating that Britain and America will always be friends. The focus on technology, energy, and trade indicates a shift towards a more collaborative future between the two nations.
