UK Envoy Pitches AI and Quantum Pact with US, Hails Trump’s “Fresh Energy” on Ukraine

Lord Mandelson has called for the establishment of a transformative US-UK technology alliance, while also crediting President Donald Trump with bringing “fresh energy” to efforts to end the war in Ukraine. In a wide-ranging speech, the British ambassador presented a case for deep collaboration on AI and quantum computing, arguing it is essential for winning the century-long competition with China.

Mandelson suggested that Trump’s unorthodox approach to foreign policy is a feature, not a bug. He argued that the president’s willingness to “hammer out compromises” and “grind out concessions” has been effective. He cited Trump’s recent interventions in global conflicts, including Ukraine, as evidence that his “America First” strategy does not equate to disengagement from the world’s problems.

The core of his message was a plea for a strategic partnership that he believes could rival the importance of the WWII military alliance. “If China wins the race for technological dominance in the coming decades, every facet of our lives is going to be affected,” Mandelson warned, emphasizing the high stakes of the technological race. The first steps of this partnership are expected to be unveiled during Trump’s state visit.

While his praise for Trump’s foreign policy may be contentious, particularly regarding Ukraine, Mandelson used it to bolster his argument that the US under Trump remains a powerful and necessary ally. He dismissed critics of a close relationship as “lazy thinking,” asserting that shared strategic interests, especially concerning China, should override other political differences.