SG News Desk | Washington/London — US President Donald Trump has sharply criticised a newly signed clean energy agreement between the United Kingdom and California Governor Gavin Newsom, calling the partnership “inappropriate,” according to a report by Politico.
The deal — signed in London on February 16, 2026 by UK Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband and Newsom — commits both sides to expanding cooperation on clean energy technologies, including offshore wind, and aims to open greater access for British companies to California’s renewable energy market.
Trump Hits Out at Newsom: “His State Has Gone to Hell”
In an interview, Trump criticised Britain for striking a deal with the Democratic governor:
“It’s inappropriate for Britain to be dealing with him.”
He also escalated his personal attacks:
“Newsom is a loser. His state has gone to hell, and his environmental work is a disaster.”
Newsom, a vocal Trump critic, has openly suggested he may seek the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028.
Newsom Spokesperson Fires Back
Responding to Trump’s comments, a spokesperson for Newsom said:
“Donald Trump is on his knees for coal and Big Oil, selling out America’s future to China.”
“Foreign leaders are rejecting Trump and choosing California’s vision for the future.”
The spokesperson added that Newsom will continue to lead on climate and clean energy “in Trump’s absence.”
UK Government: Deal Is One of Many With US States
A spokesperson for Britain’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero downplayed tensions, noting that the UK continues to work closely with the US federal government:
“This agreement is just one in a series signed at the state level — including partnerships with Florida and Texas — that will deliver jobs and growth in the UK.”
Energy Politics Heating Up in California
The clash comes as Trump has recently invited US oil and gas companies to nominate areas in Southern and Central California for potential offshore drilling lease sales as early as next year — a move condemned by Newsom and environmental groups as a threat to fragile coastal ecosystems.
In January, Newsom accused the White House of blocking him from speaking at the official US venue during the World Economic Forum in Davos, further fueling tensions.