Ed Miliband ignored questions about his past criticism of Donald Trump as he held talks in Washington with US counterpart Marco Rubio. The Foreign Secretary declined to address whether he still considered the president an “idiot, a racist and a misogynist” during his meeting with America's top diplomat.
Meeting Details and Agenda
Mr Miliband was invited to the US capital by Mr Rubio following their recent first meeting on the sidelines of a foreign ministers' summit in the Philippines last month. The pair were scheduled to discuss efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, the Ukraine war, and the situation in Gaza.
Smiling as he shook hands with Mr Rubio at the US state department, Mr Miliband sidestepped shouted inquiries from reporters about his previous views on Mr Trump, simply stating: “We are looking forward to our meeting.”
Background and Concerns
The dynamic between the two men is being closely watched, as the White House reportedly had concerns about Prime Minister Andy Burnham's decision to appoint Mr Miliband as Foreign Secretary. In his previous role as energy secretary, Mr Miliband championed net zero and renewables, while Mr Trump is a vocal supporter of fossil fuels and an opponent of wind energy.
Since taking office, Mr Burnham has signaled a shift in energy policy, earning praise from the Oval Office. Washington's ambassador to the UK, Warren Stephens, recently said Mr Miliband was “wrong” in 2016 to call Mr Trump “a racist, misogynistic, self-confessed groper” and expressed hope that “his views have changed.”
Post-Meeting Statements
After the meeting, Mr Miliband thanked Mr Rubio for a “warm, productive meeting,” stating: “The UK and US are the closest of allies, bound by culture, history and interests, including our shared commitment as Nato allies.” He emphasized the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which is vital for protecting British families and businesses from rising costs.
Mr Miliband also discussed standing with Ukraine against Putin's war and addressed the humanitarian situation in Gaza, working towards lasting peace for Palestinians and Israelis. Earlier, Mr Rubio posted on X about their meeting, highlighting the need for Europe to take a greater role in its own security and reaffirming commitment to open transit in the Strait of Hormuz and ensuring Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon.
Additionally, Mr Miliband is set to meet World Bank president Ajay Banga during his visit to discuss development, climate change, and strengthening global resilience.
