Prince Harry passionately criticized Donald Trump this week for suggesting that NATO soldiers did not serve on the frontlines in Afghanistan. The Duke of Sussex, a former soldier who served in Afghanistan post Article 5 activation, urged people to remember the sacrifices made by allies who responded to the US’s call for help. He referred to President Trump, a known draft-dodger, as making “insulting and frankly appalling” comments.
Commending the armed forces of the UK and other nations, Prince Harry emphasized the significant impact of the war in Afghanistan on countless lives. He highlighted the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families, emphasizing the need for truthful and respectful discussion.
Having served in Afghanistan himself, Prince Harry recalled the obligation of all NATO allies to support the United States after the invocation of Article 5 in 2001. He shared personal experiences of friendship and loss, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The Duke emphasized the necessity of unity and loyalty in defense of diplomacy and peace.
The royal’s two tours in Afghanistan, particularly his time in Helmand Province in 2007-2008 and with the Army Air Corps in 2012, inspired him to establish the Invictus Games in 2014, an initiative he continues to actively support as its patron.
Following President Trump’s disparaging remarks about NATO troops in Afghanistan, which implied they did not serve on the frontlines, Prince Harry released a statement in response. He highlighted the significant contributions and sacrifices made by coalition troops, with over 130,000 deployed to the Middle East after 9/11, resulting in casualties exceeding 3,500.
The comments from President Trump drew criticism from key ally Keir Starmer, who condemned them as “insulting and frankly appalling.” Starmer, breaking from his usual alignment with the US President, called for an apology for the hurt caused to the families of those affected by the conflict.
This afternoon, Starmer stated, “I consider President Trump’s remarks to be insulting and frankly appalling. And I’m not surprised they’ve caused such hurt to the loved ones of those who were killed or injured.”
