A paper in the U.K. published candid, critical appraisals their U.S. ambassador Kim Darroch made of President Trump. He wrote things not meant for public consumption and clearly the opposite of “diplomatic.” The President, in his Nu Yawk chip-on-shoulder fashion, called Darroch a “pompous fool.”
This created an intense dilemma for the lame-duck Theresa May government in Britain. Either sack the ambassador and appear servile-to-Washington or support him and appear to dis the U.K.’s most important ally.
This morning the Associated Press has the story of how the dilemma was finessed. First May said publicly she supports Darroch. Then perhaps a day later he announced his resignation, saying the release of his candid opinions makes it impossible for him to be effective here.
As a lame-duck, May should designate an “acting” and let the incoming PM appoint the new “permanent” ambassador. However, she’s done plenty hindsight suggests she shouldn’t have done ... so we’ll see what happens.
In either case, problem solved. Britain doesn’t look servile, and the Trump-hating ambassador is gone. The new boy (or girl) will be darned careful not to put negative opinions in writing.
Whoever released the ambassador’s critical assessment did so to create mischief in the “special relationship.” Presumably that person agreed with Darroch’s negative assessment. Or perhaps they really didn’t like Darroch or wanted his job, who knows?
