Donald Trump is back in the White House, and whether one greets this development with excitement or dread, it’s more than just a shift in US policy—it’s a wake-up call for Britain. For Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his new Labour government, Trump’s re-election is a jolt to any lingering illusions: Britain simply can’t afford to lean too heavily on an unpredictable US as its anchor. Trump’s “America First” doctrine, which advances American interests without hesitation—even at allies' expense—underscores the pressing need for the UK to strengthen its footing closer to home. In short, Britain’s future may be best secured within Europe.

Brexit has left a trail of frayed ties with the EU, and the cracks are only widening. With Trump reinstalled in the Oval Office, the urgency for Britain to rebuild and deepen its European partnerships has grown louder. The world, after all, is shifting in ways that demand pragmatism, not sentimentality. The UK needs a steady, dependable partner as it navigates an era increasingly dominated by trade wars, isolationism, and, frankly, the volatile whims of powerful leaders.

The Trump Effect: Why the UK Can’t Bank on the US Anymore

Trump’s presidency is already bringing a fresh tidal wave of protectionism. Since taking office, he has floated proposals for sweeping tariffs of 60% on all Chinese imports, and some of his allies are calling for even more aggressive measures, including ending China’s most-favoured-nation status. These proposals would have far-reaching effects, hitting China’s economy hard and rippling through global supply chains. With so much manufacturing tied to China, Trump’s aggressive tariff strategy threatens significant economic upheaval, including for UK industries heavily dependent on international sourcing.

During his first term, Trump’s trade war spurred companies worldwide to shift their supply chains out of China, moving production to Southeast Asia, India, and other regions. This reshoring trend might now accelerate, but the cost of rapid shifts is high. For British sectors like manufacturing, tech, and fashion—reliant on global supply chains—the consequences of a fresh wave of tariffs would be particularly severe. Higher tariffs mean increased costs on materials and finished products alike, creating disruptions that will likely drive prices up for UK consumers.

With tariffs in place, Trump’s vision of “America First” leaves little room for allies to balance their own economic interests with his hardline stance. And for the average Briton, this could mean more than just higher prices on everyday goods; it could exacerbate the cost-of-living crisis, compounding inflation and making essential imports pricier still.

The Strong Dollar and its Impact on British Consumers

Compounding these challenges is the impact of a stronger dollar, which often rises in times of geopolitical tension. For British businesses that depend on US imports or exports, this translates into steeper costs across the board. And if fuel and energy prices spike, it’s not just British companies that will bear the brunt; the financial strain will trickle down to consumers. Inflation, which had shown signs of cooling, may well surge again, likely forcing the Bank of England to hold off on much-needed rate cuts. For regular Britons, this could mean prolonged higher mortgage rates, pricier groceries, and tighter wallets—a squeeze few can afford.

All of this should prompt us to ask: do we really want to rely on a partner that could turn its back on us at the drop of a hat? Europe, after all, remains our largest trading partner—a relationship grounded in proximity, history, and shared standards. Doubling down on this partnership would grant British industries the predictability they need to withstand global economic shocks, particularly when the US, with Trump at the helm, seems determined to follow a course of “America Alone.”

Image: Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron pay their respects at a Winston Churchill statue as they commemorate French Armistice Day becoming the first British Prime Minister since World War II to attend the event in Paris. Credit:Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street

A Pivot to Europe: Sound Strategy, Not Sentimentality

Strengthening ties with the EU isn’t just a matter of trade; it’s about long-term stability. Unlike Trump’s America, the EU offers the UK a path to steady, predictable growth. The European market is vast, diverse, and tariff-free—an economic landscape that values cooperation over isolation. For British sectors like fashion, small businesses, and tech, aligning with Europe offers tangible benefits: smoother logistics, harmonized regulations, and the promise of a more resilient supply chain.

Moreover, Europe’s commitment to progressive ideals—think sustainable growth and technological innovation—mirrors the aspirations of a modern, forward-looking Britain. The EU’s regulatory frameworks, from data protection to environmental standards, set global benchmarks. By aligning with these, the UK can secure access to a critical market while ensuring its industries remain competitive. And let’s not overlook Trump’s eagerness to dismantle oversight on everything from AI to environmental policies. The contrast couldn’t be starker: while the US drifts toward deregulation, Europe remains committed to fair play, sustainable trade, and healthy competition. For the UK, these values make Europe an ally worth having.

A pivot to Europe wouldn’t just shield the UK from Trump’s economic whims; it would give Britain the chance to mend political fences and look toward a future built on cooperation. For British creative and tech industries, which thrive on European partnerships, stronger EU ties would mean fewer roadblocks and more opportunities. For manufacturers, it’s a chance to regain footing in a stable market. And for everyday consumers? It’s the prospect of an economy less prone to the price shocks and unpredictability of a US-first world.

The Human Cost of Staying the Course

Britain’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs), already grappling with post-Brexit complexities, face an even rougher ride under Trump’s protectionist policies. With rising import costs and shrinking profit margins, smaller businesses—without the safety nets of larger corporations—will struggle to stay afloat. Without the cushioning effects of closer EU ties, many may find themselves forced to make difficult choices, from layoffs to outright closures.

As for the average British consumer, the effects of Trump’s policies will hit home in tangible ways. A stronger dollar means pricier imported goods, while rising fuel costs inevitably drive up inflation. When holiday plans, grocery bills, and mortgage rates all feel the pinch, it’s the regular folks—those without the luxury of hedging or diversified investments—who’ll suffer most. Closer alignment with Europe could soften these blows, offering economic stability, smoother trade, and a critical buffer against the US’s erratic policies.

A Clear Choice for the Future

With Trump back in the Oval Office, Britain faces a critical decision. Sticking with the US under an administration that sees alliances as mere transactions, rather than partnerships, would be a risky gamble. The UK needs a partner that values cooperation, mutual benefit, and shared progress—the very qualities Europe offers in spades. Rebuilding EU ties isn’t about turning back the Brexit clock; it’s a pragmatic choice to ensure resilience in an uncertain world.

Europe holds what Trump’s America simply can’t provide: stability, economic security, and a shared vision for the future. By re-engaging with Europe, Britain has the chance to sidestep the hazards of global volatility, keeping its industries competitive and its economy steady. The path forward may not be the simplest, but it’s the one that promises the most. And in an unpredictable world, surely Britain deserves an ally it can rely on—one rooted not just in interests but in common values.

The Bottom Line: Time to Rethink

Trump’s re-election marks a turning point. His protectionist, isolationist policies remind us that Britain can no longer afford to cling to the idea of a “special relationship” with the US—a bond that seems to fray with each passing election. Europe is where Britain’s future lies. With a shared commitment to democracy, open markets, and sustainable growth, the EU represents stability, security, and a vision aligned with Britain’s own values. The road back to a closer partnership with Europe may have its bumps, but it’s the road worth traveling. In an increasingly unpredictable world, Britain needs a partner it can trust—and that partner is Europe.

Trump’s Return: A Call for the UK to Rethink its Future with Europe