Andy Burnham is scheduled to meet Donald Trump for the first time during his visit to New York next week. The Prime Minister is expected to hold discussions with the US President as both attend the UN General Assembly. Mr. Burnham has indicated he will advocate for increased support for Ukraine during the trip, despite previous criticisms of Mr. Trump.
The meeting comes at a time of heightened Transatlantic tensions over several issues, including the Middle East crisis, the conflict in Ukraine, the Falklands, Irish unification, and technology regulation. Earlier this week, Mr. Trump referred to Mr. Burnham as a 'very nice guy' but noted he is 'on the liberal side.'
Mr. Trump has also suggested he would not support the UK if Argentina attempted to reclaim the Falkland Islands, linking the issue to the UK's hesitance to engage in the US-Israeli conflict regarding Iran, which has disrupted global energy supplies.
Reports indicate that US officials have expressed concerns about the UK government's online safety legislation, particularly regarding the potential ban on social media for individuals under 16. Additionally, the UK and US have differing views on AI development, with Mr. Trump downplaying the need for regulatory measures.
Keir Starmer's earlier meeting with Mr. Trump was initially viewed as successful, although relations later deteriorated due to Starmer's refusal to support the Iran war. Downing Street sources have noted that Mr. Burnham's meetings in New York are not yet finalized. Previously, as Manchester Mayor, Mr. Burnham had stated he would not give Mr. Trump 'the time of day' and suggested he might avoid a meeting.
Last month, Mr. Burnham acknowledged that politicians often say things in the heat of the moment. He emphasized his approach of finding common ground and expressed anticipation for their first in-person meeting, recalling a positive phone call with Mr. Trump on his first day in office.