Donald Trump has praised UK soldiers who fought in Afghanistan after his claim that allied forces avoided the front lines prompted criticism from veterans and politicians. Earlier this week, Trump angered US allies by downplaying the role of NATO troops in the war and doubting whether the military alliance would be there for the US if we ever needed them. His words drew condemnation from international allies, while Sir Keir Starmer called them insulting and frankly appalling.
The UK prime minister spoke to Trump on Saturday, after which the US president used his Truth Social platform to praise UK troops as being among the greatest of all warriors. Trump was criticized for remarks he made during an interview with Fox News on Thursday in which he said of NATO troops: We've never needed them. We have never really asked anything of them. This triggered a backlash from the families of soldiers who served in Afghanistan.
Prince Harry emphasized the sacrifices of troops that needed to be respected and pointed out that NATO's collective security clause had been invoked just once following the 9/11 attacks. On Saturday, Downing Street confirmed that the prime minister and president discussed the UK's involvement with NATO forces during the conflict, reinforcing the message of sacrifice.
Shortly after their conversation, Trump expressed admiration for the UK military, highlighting the bravery and sacrifices made. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch welcomed Trump’s remarks, affirming that the UK's military contributions should never have been questioned. The backlash against Trump's original statements reflects the enduring significance and memories of those who served, many of whom lost their lives in the conflict.
The UK prime minister spoke to Trump on Saturday, after which the US president used his Truth Social platform to praise UK troops as being among the greatest of all warriors. Trump was criticized for remarks he made during an interview with Fox News on Thursday in which he said of NATO troops: We've never needed them. We have never really asked anything of them. This triggered a backlash from the families of soldiers who served in Afghanistan.
Prince Harry emphasized the sacrifices of troops that needed to be respected and pointed out that NATO's collective security clause had been invoked just once following the 9/11 attacks. On Saturday, Downing Street confirmed that the prime minister and president discussed the UK's involvement with NATO forces during the conflict, reinforcing the message of sacrifice.
Shortly after their conversation, Trump expressed admiration for the UK military, highlighting the bravery and sacrifices made. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch welcomed Trump’s remarks, affirming that the UK's military contributions should never have been questioned. The backlash against Trump's original statements reflects the enduring significance and memories of those who served, many of whom lost their lives in the conflict.
