Effective diplomacy requires confidentiality
The resignation of Kim Darroch, British ambassador to the United States, was regrettable for all professional diplomats of any nation. Darroch fell victim to a dirty trick within a British political scene roiled by a vicious debate over Brexit and a simultaneous contest for Conservative Party leadership.
An anonymous leaker passed British Embassy dispatches to a London tabloid that included Darroch’s analysis of the Trump administration and his advice as to how London can navigate what has become a very difficult bilateral relationship. The ambassador’s private comments were highly critical of President Trump.
