Key facts
- UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is expected to meet US President Donald Trump next week at the UN General Assembly in New York.
- Burnham and Trump have previously discussed Ukraine and the Middle East.
- Burnham has called for increased air defense support for Ukraine, including more Patriot missiles.
- The UK recently imposed sanctions on individuals and companies linked to illegal Israeli settlements.
- Trump expressed support for Irish unification, contrary to Burnham's stance.
- Burnham will attend the assembly with Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham is anticipated to meet US President Donald Trump for the first time in person next week at the UN General Assembly in New York. This engagement marks one of Burnham's most significant foreign policy events since assuming office.
Burnham and Trump have previously held at least two phone conversations, discussing topics such as Ukraine and the Middle East. Their most recent call focused on efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine and economic matters.
Ukraine is expected to be a central theme during Burnham's trip. He has previously emphasized the urgent need for enhanced air defense for Ukraine, urging allies to supply more Patriot missiles amid ongoing Russian bombardments. Burnham intends to leverage his presence at the General Assembly to garner further international backing for Ukraine.
Downing Street has confirmed Burnham's attendance at the assembly but has not yet confirmed any bilateral meetings, citing the dynamic nature of the event. Officials declined to comment on whether the UK's recent trade ban on illegal Israeli settlements would be raised.
The UK recently implemented sanctions targeting individuals and companies associated with illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank, a move that has drawn criticism from Israel. Burnham will be accompanied by Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, and their agenda is expected to include discussions on Gaza and the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
Recent disagreements between Burnham and Trump have surfaced, notably when Trump voiced support for Irish unification, disregarding Burnham's opposition. Downing Street subsequently reaffirmed its position that the conditions for a referendum, as outlined in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, were not met.