Prime Minister Starmer Expresses Relief Over Trump's Safety after White House Incident

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reached out to US President Donald Trump following a shocking shooting incident at the White House Correspondents Dinner, expressing his relief that the president was safe. Trump was evacuated from the event after an armed man bypassed a security checkpoint. The US Secret Service officer involved was unharmed due to his bullet-proof vest.

Starmer extended his best wishes to the president and first lady and emphasized the necessity of protecting democratic institutions. Discussions also turned to the urgent need to reopen shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz. Starmer shared insights from a recent military planning conference with French President Emmanuel Macron aimed at restoring freedom of navigation.

Next week's state visit to the US by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, commemorating the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, is seen as an opportunity to smooth UK-US relations. Buckingham Palace stated that the King is being updated on events and relieved by Trump's safety. Several discussions between UK and US teams will assess any impacts on the visit's planning.

(With inputs from agencies.)