London’s Mayor Sadiq Khan has urged British diplomats stationed globally to counter what he describes as misinformation and falsehoods about the city propagated by U.S. President Donald Trump. In an interview with Reuters, Khan highlighted the need for a coordinated response to these claims.
Trump has frequently criticized Khan, labeling him as a “terrible mayor” and suggesting that crime in London is rampant. During a speech at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025, he claimed that crime rates in the British capital were soaring and insinuated that the city was leaning towards Sharia law.
Following a meeting with British diplomats, ambassadors, and high commissioners, Khan acknowledged that while London is not without its challenges, it remains a safer city compared to many large American urban areas. He cited data indicating that 2025 marked the lowest number of homicides in London since records began, along with a decrease in mobile phone thefts, an issue that had plagued the city in recent years.
“Much of this misinformation and falsehoods comes from the United States. It is crucial to counter the propaganda emanating from President Trump… One of the things we need to do better is to debunk the lies that exist around the world,” Khan stated.
Khan emphasized that the British diplomatic corps must be equipped with facts to refute misleading and untrue statements about London. He warned that the spread of such claims on social media could deter potential visitors, investors, and students from considering London, which could adversely affect the city’s future prospects.
The long-standing public feud between Khan and Trump dates back to at least 2015, when Khan condemned Trump’s proposal to ban entry to several Muslim-majority countries. In 2016, Khan became the first Muslim mayor of London, representing the left-leaning Labour Party, and has since been re-elected twice. During his first term, Trump referred to him as an “absolute loser,” while Khan accused the U.S. leader of racism.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has called on British diplomats to address misinformation about the city spread by U.S. President Donald Trump. Khan highlighted the importance of countering false narratives to protect London's image and economic prospects.
Source: Reuters