Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set for his first face-to-face meeting with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday at the United Nations.
Key facts
- •The meeting will take place at the United Nations rather than the White House.
- •Burnham previously criticized Trump's politics while serving as mayor of Greater Manchester.
- •Trump has previously referred to Burnham as "extremely liberal" and a "mayor of a town."
- •The UK government has delayed a decision to drill at two North Sea fields.
- •Burnham and Trump have spoken by phone twice since Burnham took office.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham will meet with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday for their first face-to-face talks. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the United Nations, a setting intended to avoid the risks associated with an Oval Office press conference. Burnham enters the meeting as he seeks to balance defending British interests with maintaining a functional diplomatic relationship.
Shifting Diplomatic Strategy
Burnham has signaled a departure from the approach taken by his predecessor, Keir Starmer, who often adopted a "keep calm and carry on" strategy. While Burnham defended Starmer's methods previously, he stated in June that the UK should not simply agree with everything the US says. Downing Street sources suggest Burnham will pursue a "third way" that involves being more forceful in private and public than Starmer, while avoiding open diplomatic conflict.
Areas of Tension and Potential Cooperation
The relationship faces significant friction, as Trump has expressed anger over the UK's refusal to join US strikes in Iran and has made critical remarks regarding the UK's status and policies on the Falklands and Ireland. However, government insiders note that Trump has responded positively to reports of potential North Sea oil drilling and has remained relatively restrained regarding the UK's planned trade ban on West Bank settlements. Burnham's primary goals for the meeting are to build a rapport, advocate for Ukraine, and maintain stability.
Timeline
- February 2025Keir Starmer visited Donald Trump following the US election.
- JuneAndy Burnham signaled he would take a different approach to the US relationship than his predecessor.
- TuesdayAndy Burnham and Donald Trump are scheduled to hold their first face-to-face meeting at the UN.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Guardian US Politics.
