Coffee House Shots Is the special relationship over?
Mar 10, 2026
Michael Simmons, Economics Editor at The Spectator, explains oil price spikes, market volatility and possible cost-of-living pressure on UK policy. Freddy Gray, Deputy and US Editor at The Spectator, analyzes US politics, rising tensions with Iran and whether the UK–US special relationship has diminished. They discuss military strikes, market fallout and political consequences in short, sharp conversations.
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Republican Panic Is Driving Calls For A Quick Exit
- Senior Republicans feel growing panic about the war's political fallout and want a quick exit.
- Freddy Gray says GOP anxiety is driven by midterm polling showing most Americans are uncomfortable with the conflict.
Oil Spike Reversed By Trump's De Escalation Signal
- Oil spiked near $120 a barrel then fell as markets reacted to Trump saying the war could be over soon.
- Michael Simmons highlights the 'taco trade' where traders sell risk when Trump signals de-escalation, reversing inflation expectations.
Special Relationship Has Been Damaged
- The 'special relationship' with the US has weakened and the Trump-Starmer rapport has probably ended.
- Freddy Gray notes Diego Garcia denial and comments from senior Republicans that Britain and Spain are seen as unreliable.