LONDON (AP) — Andy Burnham, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, is scheduled to meet U.S. President Donald Trump for the first time during the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The meeting will focus on issues including the conflict in Ukraine and the ongoing situation in the Middle East. U.S. officials confirmed that the two leaders will hold discussions on the sidelines of the assembly. Burnham is set to address the gathering of world leaders on Tuesday, outlining his vision for Britain's role in a changing global landscape.
Since taking office in July, Burnham's only other international trip was to Kyiv, where he expressed intentions to encourage Trump to send interceptor missiles to support Ukraine's air defenses as winter approaches. The British government is also looking to address the restoration of free movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been largely obstructed since the onset of the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran in February. This disruption has contributed to rising oil prices, complicating Burnham's efforts to revitalize the UK economy and manage the cost of living crisis.
Historically, Burnham has been critical of Trump, previously stating he would refuse to meet him. However, upon becoming Prime Minister, he indicated a willingness to find common ground with other leaders. Burnham and Trump have communicated twice since Burnham took over leadership of the Labour Party. Trump has referred to Burnham as "a nice guy" but has also made comments that have raised concerns among UK officials, including his support for Irish unification and remarks about the Falkland Islands.
Labour Party chairwoman Bridget Phillipson emphasized the importance of maintaining a relationship with the U.S., despite differing political traditions. She stated, "We won't agree with the U.S. administration on everything, but maintaining that relationship is critical for our national interest."
Former Labour leader Keir Starmer had previously sought to cultivate a positive relationship with Trump, even inviting him for a second state visit to the UK. However, Trump's criticism of Starmer's stance on the Iran conflict and other policies has complicated their relationship.
Burnham is expected to announce a decision regarding new oil and gas fields off the coast of Scotland soon. UK officials are also preparing for potential criticism regarding Britain's trade ban with Israeli settlements and regulations on large American technology firms.
Olivia O'Sullivan, director of the U.K. in the World program at Chatham House, noted that Burnham faces a delicate balancing act in his discussions with Trump, aiming to build rapport while advocating for European perspectives on Ukraine and addressing concerns about Gaza and Israeli settlements.
Trump's recent threats regarding Greenland have also raised alarms among UK and European leaders. Burnham expressed relief at a recent agreement between Greenland, Denmark, and the U.S. that would enhance American military presence while keeping Greenland under Danish control.
During this week, Trump is expected to engage in other significant international meetings, including one with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Burnham's visit occurs amid efforts by middle-sized powers, led by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, to strengthen alliances in response to Trump's "America first" policy. Burnham's government aims to assert a more prominent role for Britain on the global stage and to rebuild connections with Europe post-Brexit.
Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, urged Burnham to adopt a firmer stance with Trump, stating that the current treatment of the UK by the U.S. is unacceptable. He expressed the need for Burnham to align with European and Canadian approaches in addressing these issues.