Britain is reportedly considering sending a Royal Navy aircraft carrier to the US for Independence Day celebrations – despite Donald Trump’s sharp criticism of the ship. The Navy is believed to be in talks to send the flagship HMS Prince of Wales to New York for July 4.
News of the possible visit comes after the US President repeatedly insulted the 65,000-tonne warship and her sister ship, HMS Queen Elizabeth. Mr Trump has dismissed aircraft carriers as “toys” and “old and broken” as he hit out at Britain over its support for the Iran war. A source said the potential visit by HMS Prince of Wales “seems disrespectful” amid criticism of the President.
talking to WireThe source who broke the story said: “Why should we send carriers to attend an event marking Britain’s defeat for a president who has called us cowards and ridiculed our ships?”
This year’s July 4 celebration will mark the 250th anniversary of American independence from Britain.
According to The Telegraph, no final decision has been made on sending HMS Prince of Wales, with negotiations over the visit having been ongoing for months.
It is believed the talks began ahead of Mr Trump’s criticism of Sir Keir Starmer over his stance on warships, the wider state of the navy and 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 believed that if her visit is approved, Britain’s largest warship will complete the patrol and then head to New York.
Former Navy chief Lord West said he believed the visit was “very likely” and said it would send an important message to the White House.
He told The Telegraph: “It would be good to let the Americans see that and show Trump how capable our carriers are.
“Fully equipped with 36 F-35s, the carriers are incredibly capable.”
A Defense Ministry spokesperson said, “We do not comment on speculation regarding operational deployments.”
