Tensions have escalated between the prime minister and President Donald Trump, with public criticism flowing in both directions over recent weeks. The prime minister has condemned the president’s language toward Iran and linked rising household costs to the actions of both the Russian leader and the American president. He has also made clear that the United Kingdom will not participate in any American blockade of Iranian ports.

Amid this strained relationship at the top, a warmer dynamic has developed between their deputies. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy travelled to Washington to meet Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for discussions focused on conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. The government appears to be leveraging Lammy’s personal friendship with Vance, which began when both men were serving in more junior political roles.

Their relationship has included private visits and regular contact, with Lammy publicly describing Vance as a friend and stressing cooperation on securing a ceasefire and ensuring safe shipping routes. While policy differences between the two governments remain clear, the cordial ties between the deputies provide a useful diplomatic channel at a time when relations between the leaders appear decidedly cool.