Britain is reportedly considering sending a Royal Navy aircraft carrier to the US for Independence Day celebrations — despite Donald Trump’s scathing criticism of the ship. The Navy is believed to be in talks to send HMS Prince of Wales, the Navy flagship, to New York for July 4.
The news of the potential visit follows repeated insults by the US President about the 65,000-tonne warship and her sister ship, HMS Queen Elizabeth. Mr Trump has dismissed the aircraft carriers as “toys” and “old and broken down” in jibes aimed at the UK over its support in the Iran war. A source said HMS Prince of Wales’ possible trip “just feels humiliating” amid the President’s criticism.
Speaking to The Telegraph, which broke the story, the source added: “Why should we send the carrier to join an event marking the defeat of Britain, for a president who has called us cowards and mocked our ships?”
This year’s July 4 celebrations will mark the 250th anniversary of American Independence from Britain.
No final decision on sending HMS Prince of Wales has been made, with talks on the trip being ongoing for months, according to The Telegraph.
It is believed the talks began prior to Mr Trump’s comments slamming the warship, plus the wider state of the Navy, and Sir Keir Starmer over his stance on the conflict in the Middle East.
HMS Prince of Wales cost £3.5 billion and is currently preparing to lead a carrier strike group in the High North.
It is thought Britain’s biggest warship would complete the patrol and then sail to New York, if her visit is approved.
Former Navy chief Lord West said he believes the trip is “very likely” and said it would send an important message to the White House.
He told The Telegraph: “It would be nice to let the Americans see her and to show Trump just how capable our carriers are.
“Fully fitted out with 36 F-35s, the carriers are incredibly capable.”
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: “We do not comment on speculation regarding operational deployments.”
Source link
