Iraq veteran MP Keir Starmer condemned U.S. Vice President JD Vance for claiming that Britain has not fought a war in 30-40 years, which many view as disrespectful to British veterans who served alongside American forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. Critics, including liberal and Tory MPs, stressed the significance of acknowledging the sacrifices made by British troops in these conflicts. Vance’s comments have reignited discussions about the importance of respecting military alliances and their shared contributions.
Iraq veteran and Member of Parliament (MP) Keir Starmer has condemned U.S. Vice President JD Vance for allegedly downplaying the contributions of British armed forces. Vance’s remarks suggested that Britain had not fought a war in the past thirty to forty years, which Starmer argued dismisses the service of British soldiers who fought alongside American forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. Approximately 636 British troops lost their lives in these conflicts, highlighting the importance of recognizing their sacrifices.
Liberal Democrat defense spokesman Helen Maguire, a former captain in the Royal Military Police, criticized Vance’s comments, stating they erase the sacrifices of hundreds of British troops who gave their lives during those conflicts. She emphasized that American and British soldiers fought bravely side by side, calling for an apology from Vance through the British ambassador to the U.S.
During an interview, Vice President Vance warned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that genuine security in Ukraine relies on providing economic incentives for the U.S. He labeled the concept of relying on troop support from nations that have not engaged in warfare recently as impractical. He suggested that support from countries without battlefield experience lacks effectiveness in enhancing security.
Responses to Vance’s statements have been overwhelmingly critical, with former Tory veterans minister Johnny Mercer referring to him as a “clown” and urging him to reflect on the serious service rendered by veterans. Shadow defense secretary James Cartlidge noted that Britain and France invoked NATO Article 5 in support of America after the September 11 attacks, pointing out the disrespect in Vance’s comments.
Several MPs, including Labour’s David Taylor, also condemned the Vice President’s remarks, asserting that they do not diminish the sacrifices made by British forces. He acknowledged the loss of 457 British service members in Afghanistan, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their contributions alongside U.S. allies. Former President George W. Bush had also previously recognized the UK’s commitment during the Iraq War, reinforcing the importance of allied contributions.
This incident marks yet another example of JD Vance attracting controversy for his remarks regarding European allies, as he has previously issued critiques regarding their policies on immigration and free speech. Starmer and other officials continue to advocate for the recognition of British troops’ sacrifices in military endeavors alongside the United States.
The remarks made by U.S. Vice President JD Vance regarding the military contributions of Britain have sparked outrage among British politicians and veterans. Leaders like Keir Starmer and Helen Maguire have called for respect and acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by British forces alongside their American counterparts. This incident underscores the critical importance of recognizing the shared sacrifices of allies in military efforts and the ongoing consequences of dismissive rhetoric regarding their service.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
