In response to Trump's words, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called them "offensive and outrageous," as reported by the BBC. In his video address from Downing Street, he recalled the 457 British servicemen who died in Afghanistan, noting that many of them suffered serious injuries that changed their lives. When asked if Trump should apologize, Starmer stated that he himself would "certainly apologize" if he made such a mistake.
Prince Harry, who also served in Afghanistan, expressed the opinion that "thousands of lives have been changed forever" and that all these sacrifices deserve respect and truth. UK Defense Secretary John Healey characterized the fallen servicemen as "heroes who gave their lives for the good of the nation."
Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch called Trump's remarks "shameful," emphasizing that "there should be no such thoughtless comments that weaken the strong ties" between allies. Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, reminded that Trump dodged military service five times during the Vietnam War. Even Nigel Farage, a long-time supporter of Trump, described his words as "simply incorrect," noting that the British armed forces "bravely fought alongside the US in Afghanistan" for 20 years.
