British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband arrived in Washington D.C. to engage with the Trump administration, aiming to strengthen the bilateral alliance despite past sharp criticisms of the U.S. President. Miliband, who has previously labeled President Donald Trump a "racist, misogynistic, self-confessed groper" and stated that Trump "lowered the bar for idiocy," expressed his commitment to "nurturing our strong, enduring and essential alliance with the US."

Miliband's visit comes as he prepares for talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Aides have expressed concern about the potential for diplomatic friction, particularly given Miliband's strong stance against oil exploration and his focus on renewable energy, policies that have drawn criticism from President Trump. The Foreign Secretary's past remarks, including a statement in 2016 that "the idea that we share values with a racist, misogynistic, self-confessed groper beggars belief," and his participation in a "Stop Trump" demonstration in 2018, highlight the challenging nature of his diplomatic mission.

Miliband has downplayed the significance of his past statements, suggesting that "Donald Trump is reading my tweets" is unlikely. U.S. Ambassador Warren Stephens acknowledged Miliband's prior comments but characterized them as occurring "some time ago."

President Donald Trump and Mr Miliband are due to meet on Wednesday. Mr Miliband spent years firing crude insults at Mr Trump during his first term in office, saying he had 'lowered the bar for idiocy'

During his meetings in Washington, Miliband is expected to address the ongoing Iran crisis, urging the U.S. to de-escalate tensions and ease pressure in the Strait of Hormuz. British ministers are reportedly concerned about potential U.S. deals that could impose significant tolls on ships using the vital trade route. Miliband also intends to advocate for continued U.S. support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.

Mr Miliband was pictured dressed casually in jeans and trainers, and carrying a suitcase as he prepared for a flight to the US capital

Miliband's trip also occurs while First Secretary of State Louise Haigh is the most senior minister remaining in the country to handle day-to-day affairs, as Prime Minister Andy Burnham is on holiday. Haigh was observed in Downing Street, dressed in a suit and trainers, ready to manage domestic matters.

First Secretary of State Louise Haigh, who was pictured in Downing Street dressed in a suit and trainers, is the most senior minister left in the country to deal with day-to-day events