Diplomat Christian Turner has been named as the UK’s new ambassador to the US, a decision confirmed by Downing Street.

The Foreign Office said in a statement that King Charles III had formally appointed Turner, and the UK would now seek official approval for his appointment from the US.

Turner, who has spent nearly 30 years working across Whitehall and the Foreign Office and is accepted as one of Britain’s most seasoned diplomats, said he was “honoured” to be nominated for the position.

He previously served as Political Director at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), British High Commissioner to Pakistan, and was set to become the UK’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, before being redirected to Washington.

Sir Keir Starmer’s government has pushed for closer ties with Donald Trump, hosting him on a second state visit in September, during which Trump praised the “unbreakable bond” between the US and UK.

However, just a few days before the President arrived, the PM sacked the controversial Peter Mandelson after revelations over his friendship with Jeffery Epstein emerged, including emails and photos which proved his continued association with the convicted paedophile.

Mr Turner steps into the role at a time of strained UK-US relations, with disagreements over Ukraine peace efforts, stalled technology trade deals, and tensions over national security strategy.

He has highlighted the historic partnership rooted in shared values, security, and economic ties and has pledged to work with President Trump’s administration, Congress, and business leaders to reinforce the transatlantic alliance, while “strengthening that bond in the years ahead.”

Christian Turners Key Diplomatic Priorities:

• Ukraine Conflict: Navigating Mr Trump’s push for a peace deal which may involve territorial concessions by Kyiv.
• Trade Relations: Reviving stalled negotiations over a UK-US technology prosperity deal.
• Security Cooperation: Addressing US concerns about Europe’s military and economic reliability.
• Global Partnerships: Leveraging his experience in Pakistan, the Middle East, and Africa to broaden UK influence.

With his extensive background and prior US experience, so Turner will be expected to play a crucial role in stabilising and advancing the relationship.

Ambassador to the US is seen as one of the UK’s top diplomatic postings and the Foreign Office statement continued to quote the PM, saying: “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.”