Trump Lavishes Praise on UK Troops Amid Anger Over His Afghanistan Claims
Former US President Donald Trump has praised British troops for their service and professionalism, striking a conciliatory note as criticism continues to build over his recent remarks on the war in Afghanistan.
Speaking at a public event on Tuesday, Trump described UK forces as “outstanding allies” and credited them with standing shoulder to shoulder with American troops during some of the most challenging military operations of the past two decades. “The United Kingdom has incredible soldiers — brave, disciplined, and deeply committed,” Trump said. “Their contribution should always be respected.”
The comments come amid mounting anger in Britain following Trump’s earlier claims about the US-led withdrawal from Afghanistan. In recent remarks, Trump suggested allied forces were mishandled during the chaotic final phase of the 2021 exit, comments that many UK politicians and veterans saw as unfair and misleading.
British defence figures were quick to push back, stressing that UK troops operated under NATO command and political decisions taken at the highest levels. Veterans’ groups said Trump’s statements risked oversimplifying a complex operation and overlooking the sacrifices made by British service personnel.
The Afghanistan conflict remains a sensitive subject in the UK, where 457 service members lost their lives over the course of the 20-year mission. For many families and former soldiers, the manner of the withdrawal continues to raise painful questions about leadership, planning, and accountability.
Analysts say Trump’s latest praise may be an attempt to calm tensions with one of America’s closest allies, particularly as he remains a central figure in US politics ahead of the next election cycle. Maintaining strong ties with the UK military has long been seen as politically and strategically important for Washington.
The UK government has not issued an official response to Trump’s remarks, but defence sources indicated that while the praise was welcomed, concerns remain over how the Afghanistan withdrawal is being discussed publicly.
As debate continues on both sides of the Atlantic, Trump’s comments highlight how the legacy of Afghanistan still shapes political discourse, alliance relations, and public trust — years after the last troops left Kabul.
For more such articles, please follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.
