Brexit impact on UK-US ties will hinge on new leaders

Subject

UK 'Brexit' referendum's impact on US foreign policy.

Significance

President Barack Obama lobbied hard for the United Kingdom to remain in the EU, citing the need for a strong and trusted US partner within the organisation. The referendum results in favour of leaving ('Brexit') are clearly a setback that could curtail long-standing US economic, political and security interests in Europe.

Impacts

• The United Kingdom may seek to use the upcoming NATO summit to regain some international stature following the Brexit vote.
• Brexit will complicate UK-US as well as EU-UK data transfer arrangements.
• Some Republicans' pro-Brexit positions are more likely to reflect political manoeuvring against the White House than a firm policy position.