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Trump's Praise for UK Soldiers Sparks Outrage and Criticism

1/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump praised British soldiers in Afghanistan, calling them among the greatest of all warriors.
His praise followed criticism that he suggested NATO troops stayed "a little off the frontlines."
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the remarks as insulting.
Defence Secretary John Healey and others argued the comments undermine allied sacrifices, noting more than 150,000 British troops served in Afghanistan and 457 died.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump praised British soldiers in Afghanistan, calling them among the greatest of all warriors.
His praise followed criticism that he suggested NATO troops stayed "a little off the frontlines."
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the remarks as insulting.
Defence Secretary John Healey and others argued the comments undermine allied sacrifices, noting more than 150,000 British troops served in Afghanistan and 457 died.