President Donald Trump today described the US-UK relationship as "indispensable" and "the highest level of special" as he sought to backtrack on his earlier comments that British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit strategy would "kill" chances of a trade deal between the two countries.
Trump also branded 'The Sun' as "fake news" when asked about his interview with the tabloid, in which he had criticised May over her handling of Brexit negotiations.
Addressing a joint press conference with the British prime minister, after their talks at her country retreat of Chequers in Buckinghamshire, he said: "The relationship between our two nations is indispensable to the cause of liberty, justice, and peace.
"This incredible woman right here is doing a fantastic job, a great job," Trump said, as he showered May with praises in a clear attempt to distance himself from the brewing row.
"I didn't criticise the prime minister. I have a lot of respect for her. And unfortunately there was a story that was done, which was generally fine, but it didn't put in what I said about the prime minister," he added.
Describing the Brexit as a "very tough situation", Trump said: "Whatever you do is OK with us, just make sure we can trade together, that's all that matters. The US looks forward to finalising a great bilateral trade agreement with the UK.
"This is an incredible opportunity for our two countries and we will seize it fully."
Conservative party MP Sarah Wollaston said Trump was "determined to insult" May, adding: "If signing up to the Trump world view is the price of a deal, it's not worth paying."
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