UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has ignited a diplomatic firestorm, calling former US President Donald Trump's recent remarks about European troops in Afghanistan "insulting and appalling." The criticism comes after Trump claimed NATO allies "stayed off the frontlines" during the conflict—a statement that has drawn sharp rebukes from veterans and leaders across Europe.
"If I had misspoken in that way, I would certainly apologize," Starmer told reporters on January 24, 2026, emphasizing the sacrifices of 457 British personnel killed in Afghanistan. The White House swiftly defended Trump, with spokeswoman Taylor Rogers stating, "President Trump is absolutely right—the US has done more for NATO than any other country."
Veterans & Leaders React
Prince Harry, who served two tours in Afghanistan, declared: "Those sacrifices deserve to be spoken about truthfully." Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel called Trump's comments "disrespectful," while Polish retired General Roman Polko demanded an apology, saying allies "paid with blood for this alliance."
Why It Matters
Trump's remarks—made during a Fox Business interview—have further strained transatlantic relations, coming just days after his controversial Greenland remarks at Davos. With NATO's role under renewed scrutiny, Starmer's unusually direct criticism signals a hardening stance toward the former US leader.
