U.S. President Donald Trump spoke by phone with newly appointed British Prime Minister Andy Burnham on July 20, 2026, in a conversation described by Trump as “very good” [1, 2, 3, 4]. They covered topics including North Sea oil, trade relations, military alliance, and efforts to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, an important global shipping route. Trump said, “We discussed North Sea Oil, Trade, the Military Alliance, Demining of the Hormuz Strait, and many other topics. The call was interesting, and went very well.” [1]
Burnham took office on July 20 as the UK's seventh prime minister in a decade at age 56, promising to focus on political reform, economic growth, and domestic challenges like rising energy prices and the cost of living [1, 5, 2, 6, 4]. Before becoming prime minister, he stepped down as mayor of Greater Manchester in June 2026, having held that position since 2017 [5]. His new government quickly reshuffled the cabinet, replacing several ministers from the previous Keir Starmer administration and naming John Healey as Chancellor [6].
The conversation marked a reset in relations after a period of tension between Trump and Starmer, stemming from disputes over the UK’s initial refusal and later authorization of U.S. military use of British bases for strikes on Iran [1, 2]. Burnham reaffirmed Britain's commitment to defense and security alliances with the U.S., emphasizing support for restoring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, which is vital to global supply chains. His office stated the prime minister is “committed to securing the movement of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz to support global supply chains and drive down costs for businesses and families across the country.” [4]
Trump expressed confidence in Burnham’s leadership, saying, “The Prime Minister has got a big job ahead of him, but he will be able to do it and, of course, the U.S.A. will be there to help!” [4]. Downing Street sources also said Burnham invited Trump to visit Manchester, his former political base and an important northern city [5, 4].
A disagreement remains on North Sea oil policy. Trump had previously called Burnham “extremely liberal” and doubted he would open the North Sea further for drilling [1, 2]. However, some reports suggest Burnham might accelerate existing oil and gas projects rather than issuing new drilling licenses outright, with details still to be clarified [6].
Trump indicated he and Burnham will meet “in the not too distant future” to further discuss shared interests [1, 2, 3, 4].
