In this episode of The International Risk Podcast, host Dominic Bowen is joined by Lord Peter Ricketts, the UK's first National Security Advisor, former Permanent Under-Secretary at the Foreign Office, and former British Ambassador to France, to unpack what Andy Burnham's rise to Downing Street means for Britain's place in the world.Ricketts examines why Burnham, arriving as the UK's seventh Prime Minister in ten years with almost no track record on foreign policy, inherits a fragile but consequential legacy from Keir Starmer, from steadfast support for Ukraine to a more assertive European security posture. He explains why personal relationships between world leaders are not a soft add-on but a genuine strategic asset, why Burnham will have to build trust with Trump, Macron, and Merz essentially from scratch, and why a hard right shift in France under Marine Le Pen could complicate cooperation on defence and migration. The conversation also covers the Strategic Defence Review's warnings on warfighting readiness, the sobering "letters of last resort" every new Prime Minister must write for Britain's nuclear submarines, and why Britain's credibility in NATO depends on defence spending it may struggle to sustain.Key topics discussed:Why Burnham's political style raises real questions about his readiness for crisis decision makingWhy personal relationships between leaders matter as much as institutions and interestsThe risk that a Le Pen led France could complicate UK-EU defence and migration cooperationWhy continuity on Ukraine is critical, and the spending trade-offs Burnham will face at homeWhat Britain needs to do to keep pulling its weight in NATOThe reality of nuclear command responsibility that awaits every incoming Prime MinisterThe international risks Lord Ricketts is watching most closely today, from war in Europe to climate changeThis episode is relevant to anyone interested in international relations, defence policy, European security, diplomacy, or international risk.The International Risk Podcast brings you conversations with global experts, frontline practitioners, and senior decision-makers who are shaping how we understand and respond to international risk. From geopolitical volatility and organised crime, to cybersecurity threats and hybrid warfare, each episode explores the forces transforming our world and what smart leaders must do to navigate them. Whether you're a board member, policymaker or risk professional, The International Risk Podcast delivers actionable insights, sharp analysis, and real-world stories that matter.Dominic Bowen is the host of The International Risk Podcast and Europe's leading expert on international risk and crisis management. As Head of Strategic Advisory and Partner at one of Europe's leading risk management consulting firms, Dominic advises CEOs, boards, and senior executives across the continent on how to prepare for uncertainty and act with intent. He has spent decades working in war zones, advising multinational companies, and supporting Europe's business leaders.Tell us what you liked!

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