New UK Leader Andy Burnham Gets Warm Welcome from European Leaders

Andy Burnham became UK prime minister on July 20, 2026, replacing Keir Starmer. Europe's top leaders praised their first talks. The EU's von der Leyen called the call "very good" and wanted both sides "closer and closer." France's Macron wanted "new momentum"; Germany's Merz expected an "even closer bond." All saw Burnham building on Starmer's work to improve EU-UK ties.