Prime Minister Andy Burnham has experienced a positive start to his premiership, with his net approval rating increasing by 17 points in his first approximately 10 days in office, according to an early poll. This rise in approval was noted across nearly all voter groups, including some Reform UK supporters.
Despite this initial success, a Guardian columnist highlights the potential for actions by Donald Trump to disrupt Burnham's tenure. The columnist suggests that the UK's current foreign policy foundation, which relies on the US as a security guarantor, may be unstable due to Trump's erratic behaviour and inconsistent support for allies.
The columnist proposes that a strategy for the UK to become less exposed to US presidential whims could involve strengthening ties with European neighbours. European countries are reportedly increasing their collective defence efforts, including joint defence procurement and pooling resources, to reduce their reliance on Washington.