British Prime Minister

UK Prime Minister to seek early election

In an unexpected statement at Downing Street, May said she was seeking a vote on June 8, less than halfway through the government's five-year term.

May, who commands only a slim majority in parliament's lower House of Commons, said that a new mandate would strengthen her hand in negotiations in Brexit talks.

Her decision is a reversal of policy -- since taking over as Prime Minister, May had repeatedly ruled out an early election.

Brexit: Article 50 will be triggered next week

The UK notified the EU on Monday of its intention to invoke Article 50 and will now prepare for a lengthy legislative and political program which promises to be anything but clear-cut.

"Last June, the people of the UK made the historic decision to leave the EU. Next Wednesday, the government will deliver on that decision and formally start the process by triggering Article 50," Brexit secretary David Davis said in a statement Monday.

Theresa May visit: UK and US 'committed' to Nato

Mrs May confirmed Mr Trump was "100% behind Nato" despite the president's recent comments calling the transatlantic alliance obsolete.

Both leaders said they would work to establish trade negotiation agreements.

Mrs May also said Mr Trump had accepted an invitation from the Queen for a state visit later this year.

"Great days lie ahead for our two peoples and our two countries," Mr Trump said.

The prime minister added that a trade agreement between the UK and US was "in the national interest in both our countries".