By Peter Adelowo
Former US President Donald Trump has come under fire for claiming that NATO allies avoided frontlines in Afghanistan, a statement widely condemned by British officials and military veterans.
Stephen Kinnock, Social Care Minister, described Trump’s remarks as “deeply disappointing” and said there was no basis for questioning the long-standing cooperation between British forces and the United States.
He emphasised that NATO and its allies have consistently supported US missions, including in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Dame Emily Thornberry, Chair of the Commons Foreign Affairs Select Committee, called Trump’s comments “an insult” to the families of fallen soldiers, stressing that the UK has always stood shoulder to shoulder with American forces.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey criticised Trump for questioning the sacrifice of soldiers, pointing out that Trump avoided military service himself.
Tory MP Ben Obese-Jecty, a former Afghanistan veteran, said Trump’s words were “a disservice” to both US and British troops, recalling the heavy casualties suffered by forces he served alongside.
Veterans and lawmakers argued that Trump’s claims ignored the courage and commitment of British and NATO personnel who fought alongside US forces over many years.
The controversy has reignited debates over respect for military service and the historical contributions of NATO allies in global conflicts.
Observers say the backlash highlights ongoing sensitivities regarding the sacrifices of soldiers and the importance of accurately representing allied contributions in international security operations.
