The UK appointed Christian Turner as ambassador to the US after Mandelson’s departure
The UK has appointed communications veteran Christian Turner as its new ambassador to the United States, replacing Lord Peter Mandelson, Downing Street has confirmed.
Turner, a Foreign Office official with almost three decades of experience across Whitehall and overseas, will take on one of Britain’s most senior diplomatic roles at a crucial time in the transatlantic relationship. His appointment follows the departure of Mandelson, who was removed by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer after evidence emerged of his continuing relationship with the late Jeffrey Epstein.
The Foreign Office said that King Charles had officially approved Turner’s appointment, and the UK is now seeking a humanitarian agreement from Washington. In a brief statement, the White House said it looked forward to working with Turner “to promote a stronger relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom”.
Turner said he was “honoured” to be nominated, adding that the timing of the role underscored its importance. “At an important time in the transatlantic relationship, I look forward to working with President Trump’s administration, and with leaders of Congress, business and society, to strengthen that relationship in the years to come,” he said.
His arrival in Washington comes as UK-US relations face a series of diplomatic tests. Chief among them is Donald Trump’s push for a quick resolution to the war in Ukraine, a decision that has troubled European leaders over whether a quick resolution could undermine the continent’s security. Turner will also have to liaise with Washington on a long-awaited technology deal, which has been delayed amid criticism from some US lawmakers and UK cyber security officials.
Earlier this month, the US national security strategy document signed by Trump warned that Europe is facing a “de-civilization” and questioned the credibility of some allies, highlighting the increasingly difficult situation Turner will have to navigate.
Sir Keir Starmer wants to maintain close ties with the Trump administration, including hosting the US president on a second state visit in September, where Trump has spoken of an “unbreakable relationship” between the two countries. However, Mandelson’s sudden departure days before that trip underscored the political sensitivity surrounding the ambassadorship.
Turner’s background is rooted in diplomacy. His previous roles include political director at the Foreign Office, British high commissioner to Pakistan, and director for the Middle East and North Africa. He also worked at Number 10 as private secretary to the prime minister. Before entering the government, he worked in television programs.
Sir Keir said Turner’s appointment reflected the importance of the role. “The United Kingdom and the United States have a very special relationship, and Christian’s extensive experience as a distinguished diplomat will support this close relationship and ensure that it continues to flourish,” he said.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper added that Turner would bring “exceptional diplomatic experience and deep understanding” to the position. The diplomatic role in Washington is widely regarded as one of the most influential positions in the UK, carrying important political, economic and security responsibilities.
