UK names Christian Turner as ambassador to US, replacing Peter Mandelson

The UK has named profession diplomat Christian Turner as its new ambassador to the US, Downing Avenue has confirmed.The earlier ambassador, Peter Mandelson, was sacked by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer after proof, together with emails and photographs, emerged displaying his continued affiliation with the paedophile Jeffery Epstein.Turner has spent practically 30 years working throughout Whitehall and the International Workplace.As the brand new ambassador in Washington, he should navigate relations with the Trump administration, which have been partly strained by disagreements over how one can deal with the warfare in Ukraine, in addition to President Donald Trump’s criticism of Europe.The International Workplace mentioned in an announcement that King Charles had formally appointed Turner, and the UK would now search official approval – or agrément – for his appointment from the US.Turner mentioned he was “honoured” to be nominated for the place. “At a pivotal time for the transatlantic relationship, I stay up for working with President Trump’s administration, and leaders in Congress, enterprise and society to strengthen that bond within the years forward,” he mentioned. Turner will face a heavy load of diplomatic duties when he takes up the function.Mainly amongst them is working with the US on Trump’s push to finish the warfare in Ukraine, which European nations concern will undercut the long-term pursuits of the continent in favour of a fast decision.Earlier this month, a US nationwide safety technique doc – signed by Trump – argued that Europe was dealing with “civilisational erasure” and questioned whether or not sure European international locations might stay dependable allies.Turner can even must work to safe a long-anticipated however delayed tech take care of the US, amid issues from some White Home and congressional officers who’ve been vital of the UK’s on-line security legal guidelines. Some have characterised these laws as “censorship” and authorized overreach that impacts US companies.Starmer’s authorities has pushed for shut ties with Trump, internet hosting him on a second state go to in September, throughout which Trump praised the “unbreakable bond” between the US and UK.However simply days earlier than Trump arrived, Starmer sacked Mandelson after revelations over his friendship to Epstein. Mandelson has repeatedly mentioned he regrets his relationship with Epstein, who died in jail in 2019 whereas awaiting trial on intercourse trafficking offences.The International Workplace reportedly pushed laborious for a diplomatically skilled determine to be appointed as the brand new ambassador. Turner’s earlier roles embrace political director on the International Workplace, British Excessive Commissioner to Pakistan, and International Workplace Director for the Center East and North Africa. He additionally beforehand labored in 10 Downing Avenue as personal secretary to the prime minister.Earlier than getting into authorities, he labored in tv documentaries.In an announcement launched by the International Workplace, Starmer mentioned: “The UK and United States have a really particular relationship, and Christian’s intensive expertise as an impressive diplomat will assist this uniquely shut bond and guarantee it continues to flourish.”International Secretary Yvette Cooper mentioned Turner would carry “distinctive diplomatic expertise and deep understanding” to the function. Ambassador to the US is seen as one of many UK’s high diplomatic postings.