London Mayor Sadiq Khan has called US President Donald Trump “not a force for good,” while saying he would still be willing to meet him. Speaking at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Sir Sadiq expressed concern that Trump’s statements could inadvertently radicalize people.
The mayor dismissed recent comments Trump made during a visit to Scotland, where he called Khan “a nasty person” who had “done a terrible job.” Khan said such remarks were “water off a duck’s back” but added that the insults sometimes made him feel like he was “nine years old again” in the school playground.
Speaking at the Political Party show alongside comedian Matt Forde, Khan criticized the US President’s views on women, black people, LGBTQ+ communities, Muslims, and Mexicans. He said it was ironic that someone with these opinions would label him as “nasty,” noting Trump’s status as one of the world’s most powerful leaders.
Khan highlighted that since Trump began his second term in January, more Americans have been applying for British citizenship and moving to London than ever before. “I think Americans have got good taste by and large,” he said.
The mayor also expressed hope that Trump would visit London during his upcoming state visit to the UK. He stressed that the city’s diversity is a strength, not a weakness. “I think it makes us stronger, not weaker, richer, not poorer,” Khan said. He added that some of Trump’s statements could push fringe views into the mainstream, creating potential risks.
Khan voiced concerns that minority communities might face unfair treatment due to Trump’s rhetoric. He accused the President of using London’s diversity as a “political football” in a broader culture war. While personally unfazed by Trump’s attacks, Khan emphasized the serious societal challenges posed by such divisive views.
Despite the criticism, Khan said he would be happy to meet Trump. He wants to show that it is possible to be a proud Westerner, a law-abiding Muslim, and a proud British citizen of Pakistani origin. “We aren’t three-headed monsters,” Khan said, underscoring that the actions of a small minority of terrorists should not define global Muslim communities.
He concluded by explaining that he hopes Trump would understand the distinction between the extremists and the majority of Muslims worldwide. “If there was an opportunity to meet President Trump, I would be more than happy to do so,” Khan said, reiterating his willingness to engage in dialogue despite strong differences.
The mayor’s remarks underline ongoing concerns about the influence of political rhetoric on social cohesion and public perception of minorities. Khan’s stance reflects both a defense of London’s diversity and a call for responsible leadership on the global stage.
