Trump calls UK bankrupt, urges North Sea oil expansion

In a White House press conference on Monday, August 3, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump delivered pointed criticism of the United Kingdom's energy policy, labeling the country "bankrupt" and urging it to fully exploit its North Sea oil and gas reserves. He also reiterated his long-standing opposition to wind energy, framing his comments within a broader critique of Europe's challenges with immigration and energy security.

President Trump asserted that two primary issues are "killing Europe": immigration and energy. Focusing on the UK, he claimed the nation is sitting on "one of the best energy fields in the world" but is failing to capitalize on it. "If you open it up, you'll be a wealthy country. You keep it closed, you're going to be a bankrupt country, which is what you are now," Trump stated. He argued that tapping these resources could slash energy prices and even provide "free energy," suggesting the reserves could last for centuries.

The president revealed he had discussed the matter with Britain's new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, who took office on July 20. Trump said the prime minister "sounded terrific on this subject" during their conversation and expressed...