British PM appoints new ambassador to US

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer appointed a new UK ambassador to the United States (US), replacing a diplomat who was fired over his over his links to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Christian Turner, currently the UK’s permanent representative to the United Nations, will replace Peter Mandelson, who was sacked in September because of his friendship with Epstein.  The appointment comes as US President Trump has been critical of Europe and at a time when Starmer and his European peers are pushing to make sure that a US brokered peace plan between Russia and Ukraine does not leave Kyiv vulnerable. “The UK and United States have a very special relationship, and Christian’s extensive experience as an outstanding diplomat will support this uniquely close bond,” Starmer said.