Donald Trump’s helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing at UK’s Luton Airport with the US President and the First Lady on board.
The Marine One helicopter was flying to Stansted Airport from the Prime Minister’s estate at Chequers when it suffered “a minor hydraulic issue”.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the aircraft made the emergency landing “out of an abundance of caution”.
She added that Mr Trump and his wife Melania “safely boarded the support helicopter” and continued on to Stansted where they “were able to board Air Force One for the return journey from the UK”.
Wrapping a three-day visit to the UK, President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Keir Starmer earlier, presented a united front on core issues.
Both leaders praised the alliance and vowed to deepen work on trade, defence, and technology.
Trump thanked Britain for warm hospitality and said ties remain strong despite recent tensions.
Ukraine support and messages to Moscow
Trump said the Russia Ukraine conflict has proved harder to resolve than expected.
He voiced disappointment in Vladimir Putin and said pressure must continue.
Starmer stressed that the UK is helping lead a coalition of partners to support Kyiv.
He said London will push for stronger defences, more aid, and a durable peace that holds.
Gaza war, recognition debate, and regional risks
Asked about Gaza, Trump repeatedly returned to the October 7 attacks. He said the crisis is complex but insisted progress is possible.
He noted a rare difference with Starmer over the UK plan to recognise a Palestinian state. Both leaders condemned Hamas.
Neither directly criticised Israeli policy, while saying work continues to end the war and ease humanitarian suffering.
NATO praise and higher defence spending
Long seen as sceptical of NATO, Trump lauded the alliance and its secretary general for pushing members to spend more.
He said the US is moving weapons quickly to allies and values pledges to boost budgets.
Both leaders framed the alliance as a pillar of security that deters aggression and keeps Europe and North America aligned.
