Washington/London, January 24, 2026 – U.S. President Donald Trump has once again stirred controversy with his remarks on the Afghanistan war, drawing sharp criticism from the United Kingdom. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described Trump’s comments as “insulting” to the country and demanded an apology.
Trump’s Statement on NATO in Afghanistan
During an interview with Fox News at the World Economic Forum in Davos, President Trump claimed that NATO troops largely stayed away from the frontlines during the Afghanistan conflict. He stated, “We never really needed them, we never asked them for anything. You know, they’ll say they sent some troops, or did this or that. Even the ones they sent were a little behind, a little off the front line. And if America ever asks for help, NATO won’t come through.”
Trump’s comments have sparked anger in the UK, where 457 British soldiers lost their lives during the Afghanistan war. The remarks were widely perceived as undermining the sacrifices of those who fought alongside American forces.
UK Leaders Condemn Trump
Responding to Trump, Prime Minister Starmer said, “I find President Trump’s comments insulting and, frankly, very upsetting. I pay tribute to the 457 British soldiers who lost their lives in Afghanistan and demand an apology from President Trump. Their courage, bravery, and sacrifice for our country will never be forgotten.”
British Defence Secretary John Healey echoed Starmer’s sentiments on social media, calling the fallen soldiers “heroes who gave their lives in service to our nation.” Opposition leaders in the UK also criticized Trump, with Conservative Party leader Keir Badenoch describing his remarks as “nonsense” that undermines the NATO alliance.
Prince Harry Voices Opposition
Prince Harry, who served twice in Afghanistan, also condemned Trump’s remarks. “I served there, I made lifelong friends and I lost friends,” Harry said. “Thousands of lives were changed forever. Children were left without parents. Families are still paying the price. The sacrifices made deserve to be discussed with truth and respect, not dismissed.”
Trump’s statements have reignited tensions over the historical record of NATO’s involvement in Afghanistan and the sacrifices made by allied troops, highlighting the sensitive nature of discussing military operations and their human costs.
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