British veterans and political leaders condemned Vice President Vance after he downplayed allied military contributions, citing the 636 UK soldiers killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Figures like Johnny Mercer, Andy McNab, Lord West, and General Sir Patrick Sanders stressed the deep bonds between the UK and U.S., while Shadow Defense Secretary James Cartlidge and Prime Minister Keir Starmer called his remarks disrespectful.
Vance later clarified that his comments weren’t aimed at Britain or France but at nations with little combat experience. Still, the controversy highlights the need for diplomatic sensitivity. It also comes as the U.S. pursues a proposed U.S.-Ukraine critical minerals deal, which President Trump claims would deter Russia more effectively than peacekeepers. watch below
