UK names Christian Turner as ambassador to US, replacing Mandelson amid Epstein ties
Turner, a career diplomat with decades in Whitehall, takes up a volatile post as Washington-WUK relations face Ukraine policy and tech talks
LONDON — The United Kingdom on Tuesday named career diplomat Christian Turner as its new ambassador to the United States, replacing Lord Peter Mandelson, who was sacked by Prime Minister Keir Starmer after evidence, including emails and photos, emerged showing his continued association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Turner has spent nearly 30 years in Whitehall and the Foreign Office. He has served as the Foreign Office's political director, British high commissioner to Pakistan, and director for the Middle East and North Africa. He also worked in Downing Street as private secretary to the prime minister.
King Charles formally appointed Turner, and the Foreign Office said the United Kingdom would seek formal US agrément before he assumes the post.
Turner will face a heavy workload, including working with the Trump administration on efforts to end the war in Ukraine, a policy area where European allies fear a rushed settlement that could undermine long-term security. A US national security strategy document signed by Trump described Europe as facing civilisational erasure and questioned whether certain European states could remain reliable allies.
He will also be involved in pursuing a long-delayed tech deal with the United States, amid concerns among White House and congressional officials that the UK's online safety laws amount to censorship or legal overreach by tech platforms.
Mandelson's sacking occurred just days before Trump's state visit, and Mandelson has said he regrets his relationship with Epstein.
Turner said he was honoured to be nominated. '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.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said Turner would bring 'exceptional diplomatic experience and deep understanding' to the role.
Ambassador to the United States is one of the UK's top diplomatic postings, reflecting the enduring closeness of the so-called 'special relationship.'