Andy Burnham’s first conversation as Prime Minister with US President Donald Trump was described by Downing Street as “extremely warm,” with Trump expressing optimism about Burnham’s leadership and pledging American support. The phone call, lasting about 20 minutes shortly after Burnham’s arrival at Downing Street, covered several topics including North Sea oil, trade, military cooperation, and the demining of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump praised Burnham's ability to handle the challenges ahead and affirmed that the United States “will be there to help.”
The exchange offers a tentative reset of UK-US relations following a period of tension under previous UK leadership, particularly over disputes related to the Iran conflict. Trump, who had initially characterized Burnham as “extremely liberal” and a “mayor of a town,” appears to have warmed to the new Prime Minister, especially after reports that Burnham might support renewed oil and gas exploration in the North Sea. Trump asserted that increased drilling could transform the UK’s economic fortunes, predicting people in Aberdeen would be “dancing in the streets.”
Despite this positive tone towards Burnham, the appointment of Ed Miliband as Foreign Secretary remains a source of concern within parts of the US administration. Miliband, previously Labour leader and known for his strong advocacy of climate policies—including opposing new North Sea drilling licenses—has a contentious reputation in Washington. Some senior Trump administration officials view him as a “point of friction” in the UK-US relationship due to his green energy stance and previous criticisms of Trump, whom Miliband once described as a “racist, misogynistic self-confessed groper.”
Miliband’s approach to foreign policy emphasizes upholding international law, democracy, and climate diplomacy, priorities that resonate with some US political figures but fuel scepticism among Trump-aligned quarters. His record includes opposition to using British military bases for US bombing operations in Iran and support for the International Criminal Court, a position at odds with US Senator Marco Rubio’s campaign to undermine the ICC. Miliband is expected to confront these issues in his first bilateral meeting with Rubio at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in the Philippines.
Reactions to Miliband’s appointment are mixed among US observers. While the White House reportedly has reservations and some describe his environmental policies as extreme, others note his experience and pragmatic record of working across divides. California Governor Gavin Newsom praised Miliband as a “true statesman” focused on critical global challenges. Miliband also maintained cooperation on nuclear power and hydrogen technology with US energy officials during his time as energy secretary, indicating potential for collaboration despite political differences.
Other members of Burnham’s Cabinet are less familiar to Washington and have so far made little impression, which some analysts believe could complicate engagement with the new UK government. The new Chancellor, John Healey, for instance, is relatively unknown in US political circles. The Defence Secretary, Wes Streeting, may attract criticism given previous clashes between Trump and UK military leadership. Observers caution that any direct public confrontation with Trump would be unwise, suggesting that diplomatic efforts must rely on discreet dialogue and intermediaries.
Overall, the UK-US relationship under Burnham faces both opportunities and challenges, with Trump’s initial endorsement of the Prime Minister offering a hopeful start, while lingering tensions surrounding Miliband and other Cabinet members indicate a complex path ahead.