Trump signals possible use of military to curb illegal migration during UK visit
President discusses small boats crisis with Sir Keir Starmer at Chequers; UK minister says armed forces could be called upon if needed, as deportations and crossings continue
President Donald Trump signaled during his state visit to Britain that military intervention could be used to deal with illegal migration to the UK. He said he discussed the small boats crisis with Sir Keir Starmer at Chequers yesterday, warning that illegal migration could 'destroy' countries. Cabinet minister Peter Kyle later said the armed forces should stay focused on defence, but that the Navy could be called upon 'if needed'.
It comes as a second migrant was deported to France today under the Government's 'one in, one out' deal, and more small boats began crossing the Channel. The development underscores the challenge Britain faces as authorities step up removals and monitor ongoing crossings.
The government has said any military option would be subject to legal and parliamentary scrutiny, and that the armed forces would be used to support civilian agencies rather than replace them.
Daily Mail readers were invited to weigh in on whether Britain should involve the military to stop illegal migration. The poll's final results will be announced in tomorrow's update. A separate note on yesterday's poll shows a split among readers on a different topic: 51% said no and 49% said yes regarding whether Jimmy Kimmel's US talk show should have been canceled for Charlie Kirk comments.
The Chequers discussion comes as lawmakers and officials on both sides of the Atlantic weigh options to curb crossings, with emphasis on border enforcement, legal scrutiny, and civil-military coordination.