Andy Burnham is scheduled to meet with former U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, marking their first encounter. The brief meeting, anticipated to last around 30 minutes, may cover several contentious international issues including Iran, Israel, the Falkland Islands, and trade policy.
A key area of discussion is likely to be Iran. Trump continues to express frustration over the previous British government led by Sir Keir Starmer declining a request for the use of UK military bases at the outset of hostilities involving Iran. Although that decision was later partially reversed, Burnham still allows limited American strikes against Iran to be launched from British airbases. The ongoing conflict, however, is contributing to rising energy and fuel costs within the United Kingdom, adding domestic pressure to the situation.
Burnham is also expected to advocate for increased U.S. support to Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict there. During a recent visit to Kyiv, Burnham urged additional provision of Patriot missile interceptors from the United States, a call he plans to reiterate in his discussion with Trump.
Energy policy, particularly concerning North Sea oil and gas extraction, is another point of interest. Trump has repeatedly questioned why the United Kingdom, despite having resources in the North Sea, has refrained from extensive drilling on environmental grounds. Trump reportedly views Burnham more favorably on this issue, citing the prime minister’s indication that he intends to “open up” the North Sea for resource development.
Trade relations also remain a potential area of disagreement. Trump has threatened to revoke trade deals with certain allies unless they repeal digital services taxes targeting major technology companies, measures that disproportionately impact American firms. British officials regard these taxes as a critical revenue source—generating nearly £1 billion annually—and note their strong public support, signaling that they will likely resist U.S. pressure to eliminate them.
Territorial matters concerning the Falkland Islands and Ireland may further complicate the dialogue. Trump recently declined to confirm U.S. support for Britain should Argentina seek to reclaim the Falklands, raising concerns in London. Additionally, during a visit to Ireland, Trump expressed support for Irish unification, a stance that has unsettled British diplomats given its sensitive political implications.
Relations surrounding overseas territories highlight another complexity. Observers close to Trump have noted inconsistencies between the UK’s firm stance on retaining the Falklands while seemingly willing to relinquish the Chagos Islands. A longstanding agreement on the Chagos remains stalled after Trump withdrew his backing, and Burnham is expected to seek clarification on the issue.
Israel remains a delicate topic. While British officials prepared for a strong U.S. reaction to London’s decision to sanction Israeli settlements in the West Bank, the response was notably subdued. U.S. insiders credit this diplomatic balancing act, alongside the success of the King’s state visit, as major achievements over the past year.
In sum, the upcoming meeting between Burnham and Trump is set against a backdrop of significant geopolitical tensions and divergent national interests. While disagreements are anticipated, there may also be opportunities for cooperation on issues such as Ukraine and energy policy.