Sir Keir Starmer has expressed strong disapproval of President Donald Trump's comments regarding British troops who served in Afghanistan, describing them as 'insulting and frankly appalling'.
In an interview, Trump insinuated that NATO allies were not fully committed in the Afghan conflict, stating they stayed 'a little off the front lines' and questioned the readiness of NATO to support the United States in times of need.
Starmer emphasized that he would offer an apology if he had made similar remarks, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding the sacrifices made by British service personnel, where 457 lives were lost during the two-decade conflict.
'I will never forget their courage, their bravery, and the sacrifice they made for their country,' Starmer stated, noting the emotional toll Trump's comments have taken on families affected by the war.
The backlash against Trump's statements was swift, drawing condemnation from across the UK's political spectrum, with many highlighting his history of dodging military service during the Vietnam War. In response to Starmer's remarks, other leaders echoed the sentiment that such careless comments should not tarnish the memories of those who served and sacrificed.
As the discussion continues, the responsibility for NATO's collective actions and the impact of Trump's words on international relations remain central topics of concern.
