Trump and New UK PM Burnham Discuss North Sea, Strait of Hormuz in First Call

US President Donald Trump held his first phone call with the newly appointed British Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, on Monday (20/7), with both leaders discussing a range of strategic issues from energy to global maritime security. In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the conversation as ‘interesting and very good,’ noting that the pair discussed the North Sea, trade, military alliances, and efforts to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz. ‘The Prime Minister has a big job ahead of him, but he will be able to do it, and of course, the US is ready to help!’ Trump wrote. The two leaders also agreed to meet in the near future to further discuss matters of mutual interest for the allied nations.

Downing Street confirmed that the call with Trump was Burnham’s first international engagement as Prime Minister. During the conversation, Burnham outlined the UK’s commitment to securing the movement of ships in the Strait of Hormuz and reaffirmed the country’s role in providing security for its allies. He also formally invited Trump to attend the G20 Summit scheduled to be held in Manchester next year. Following the call with Trump, Burnham reportedly spoke directly with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Andy Burnham, 56, was officially sworn in as the United Kingdom’s seventh Prime Minister in a decade by King Charles III, following the resignation of Keir Starmer. In his inaugural address, the Labour leader pledged to improve public services, including the water system, and to push for greater devolution of power. He takes office amid a cost-of-living crisis and faces the immediate task of restoring political stability while maintaining the UK’s strong international alliances, including support for Ukraine and membership in NATO.