In a revealing and candid first interview since his abrupt removal from the post of UK ambassador to the United States, Lord Peter Mandelson has offered a nuanced and somewhat surprising assessment of former President Donald Trump. The Labour grandee appeared on the BBC's flagship Sunday politics programme, hosted by Laura Kuenssberg, on Sunday 11 January 2026.
A Diplomat's Unexpected Praise
Mandelson, a key figure in the New Labour era, did not hold back in commending aspects of Trump's character. He specifically highlighted the former president's 'graciousness and directness' as notable qualities. According to Mandelson, this straightforward approach had a practical benefit in diplomacy: it provided clarity, allowing him to know 'exactly what he was thinking'.
The peer also expressed an appreciation for Trump's sense of humour, suggesting a more personal rapport existed beyond the formal diplomatic channels. This perspective comes from a figure who served at the heart of the UK's most crucial diplomatic relationship during a turbulent period in transatlantic politics.
Criticism Amidst the Compliments
However, Mandelson's appraisal was not wholly positive. He was careful to balance his praise with pointed criticism, acknowledging that he did not approve of all the language used by the former president. He admitted that some of Trump's public statements were so shocking they made him 'gasp'.
This blend of professional respect and personal dismay paints a picture of a complex diplomatic relationship, one where navigating the unpredictable nature of Trump's communication style was a daily challenge for the ambassador.
An 'Extraordinary Risk Taker'
Perhaps the most significant characterisation from Mandelson was his description of Trump's leadership. He labelled the former president an 'extraordinary risk taker', a trait that undoubtedly defined his tenure in the White House and shaped global geopolitics.
This analysis from a seasoned political operator like Mandelson provides a unique insight into how Trump was perceived by experienced international figures tasked with managing the relationship. It moves beyond partisan rhetoric to a more operational assessment of his style and its implications for statecraft.
The interview marks Mandelson's first public commentary since his dismissal from the ambassadorial role. His removal was widely reported to be connected to scrutiny over his past associations, specifically historical links to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a topic that has resurfaced in political discourse.
