Starmer Slams Trump's 'Insulting' Remarks on NATO Troops in Afghanistan

Tue Feb 03 2026 17:20:34 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer criticizes Donald Trump's comments regarding NATO troops in Afghanistan, calling them 'insulting' and a slight to those who served.

In a recent interview, President Donald Trump stated that NATO allies were not truly on the front lines in Afghanistan. Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the UK Labour Party, responded with strong condemnation, describing Trump's remarks as 'insulting and frankly appalling.' Starmer emphasized the bravery and sacrifice of British soldiers, who lost lives in the conflict. The incident has sparked international outrage, particularly from UK political figures who criticized Trump's comments while highlighting the serious contributions of NATO forces in Afghanistan.

Sir Keir Starmer has described President Donald Trump's remarks about British troops in Afghanistan as insulting and frankly appalling.

On Thursday, Trump said that US allies stayed a little off the front lines in the conflict and claimed he was not sure NATO would be there if the US needed it.

Starmer said if he himself had mispoken in that way, he would certainly apologise. Trump's words sparked international outrage as the UK and other nations joined the US in Afghanistan after NATO's collective security clause was invoked following the 9/11 attacks, resulting in the deaths of 457 British service personnel.

Starmer reflected, I will never forget their courage, their bravery and the sacrifices they made for their country. He also mentioned the many injured, some with life-changing injuries. He expressed that Trump's comments would cause hurt to the loved ones of those who were killed or injured.

Trump's comments drew widespread condemnation across the UK's political spectrum, with critics highlighting the sacrifices made during the war while pointing out Trump's avoidance of military service during the Vietnam War.

Starmer's response, along with others from political leaders, emphasizes the need for respect regarding the sacrifices made by military personnel.

Throughout Friday, reactions poured in from leaders of various parties. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said it was a disgrace to denigrate the memory of those who lost their lives. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey challenged Trump's credibility due to his history of avoiding military service.