The UK has named veteran diplomat Christian Turner as its new ambassador to the United States, replacing Lord Peter Mandelson, Downing Street has confirmed.
Turner, a career Foreign Office official with nearly three decades of experience across Whitehall and overseas postings, will take up one of Britain’s most senior diplomatic roles at a pivotal moment 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 continued association with the late Jeffrey Epstein.
The Foreign Office said King Charles has formally approved Turner’s appointment, with the UK now seeking the customary agrément from Washington. In a brief statement, the White House said it looked forward to working with Turner to “further enhance the strong relationship between the United States and United Kingdom”.
Turner said he was “honoured” to be nominated, adding that the timing of the role underlined its importance. “At a pivotal time for the transatlantic relationship, I look forward to working with President Trump’s administration, and leaders in Congress, business and society, to strengthen that bond in the years ahead,” 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 rapid resolution to the war in Ukraine, a stance that has unsettled European leaders concerned that a quick settlement could undermine the continent’s long-term security. Turner will also be required to engage with Washington over a long-anticipated technology deal, which has been delayed amid criticism from some US lawmakers and officials of the UK’s online safety regime.
Earlier this month, a US national security strategy document signed by Trump warned that Europe faced “civilisational erasure” and questioned the reliability of certain allies, highlighting the increasingly complex environment Turner will have to navigate.
Sir Keir Starmer has sought to maintain close relations with Trump’s administration, including hosting the US president on a second state visit in September, during which Trump spoke of the “unbreakable bond” between the two countries. However, Mandelson’s abrupt departure days before that visit underlined the political sensitivity surrounding the ambassadorial post.
Turner’s background is firmly 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 has also served in No 10 as a private secretary to the prime minister. Before entering government, he worked in television documentaries.
Sir Keir said Turner’s appointment reflected the importance of the role. “The United Kingdom and United States have a very special relationship, and Christian’s extensive experience as an outstanding diplomat will support this uniquely close bond and ensure it continues to flourish,” he said.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper added that Turner would bring “exceptional diplomatic experience and deep understanding” to the post. The ambassadorial role in Washington is widely regarded as one of the UK’s most influential diplomatic appointments, carrying significant political, economic and security responsibilities.
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UK appoints career diplomat Christian Turner as new ambassador to Washington