United States President Donald Trump publicly disclosed that he personally requested London Mayor Sadiq Khan not be invited to the state banquet held in his honor during his recent official visit to the United Kingdom. Trump made these remarks while speaking to reporters onboard Air Force One as he returned to the US from the UK on September 18, 2025.

Trump described Mayor Khan as “among the worst mayors in the world,” criticizing him harshly for his handling of crime and immigration in London. “Crime in London is through the roof,” Trump declared, calling Khan a “disaster” on immigration. The president stated clearly, “I asked that he not be there. He wanted to be there, as I understand, I didn’t want him.” The London mayor did not attend the banquet at Windsor Castle, and sources close to Khan confirmed he neither sought nor expected an invitation to the event.

This episode deepens the long-standing feud between Trump and Khan, which began amidst controversy in 2015 after Khan criticized Trump’s proposal to ban Muslims from traveling to the United States. Since then, Trump has repeatedly attacked the London mayor with such insults as “stone-cold loser” and “nasty person,” while Khan has accused Trump of promoting far-right politics and stirring division. During Trump’s first state visit in 2019, Khan was a focal point for protests, including the now-iconic “Trump baby” blimp flown over London.

A spokesperson close to Sadiq Khan dismissed Trump’s recent comments, arguing that Trump’s politics are one of fear and division. The spokesperson highlighted London’s status as a global success story—dynamic, open, and statistically safer than major American cities. They also noted the growing number of Americans choosing to live in London as evidence of the city’s appeal.

Experts have weighed in on the political and social impact of the spat. Dr. Helen Foster, a UK political analyst, noted, “This episode illustrates the continuing polarization and symbolic battles between leaders of very different political cultures. While Trump uses these attacks to energize his base, Khan’s role as London’s mayor reflects a complex, multicultural city’s challenges and successes.” Public reaction in London remains mixed, with some condemning Trump’s remarks as divisive while others voice concern over rising crime rates under Khan’s tenure.

The real-life implications of such high-profile discord between a serving US president and a major metropolitan mayor underscore the complex transatlantic relations and the interplay of domestic politics on the global stage. The absence of Khan from the historically significant state banquet speaks to deeper tensions not only in personalities but also political ideologies and policies concerning immigration and urban governance.

Looking ahead, this incident may impact diplomatic protocol and public perception during future high-profile visits between the US and UK. The episode has already stirred discussion about the role of local leaders in international diplomacy and the importance of maintaining civility despite political disagreements.

In summary, Trump’s explicit request to exclude London Mayor Sadiq Khan from a royal state banquet highlighted their enduring feud filled with sharp criticisms and political antagonism. The confrontation brings focus to broader issues of crime, immigration, and political rhetoric that shape public discourse on both sides of the Atlantic. Observers will be watching closely how this relationship evolves as both leaders continue to influence their respective constituencies and international ties.