The UK responded sharply to Vice President Vance’s comments, with
British veterans and military leaders condemning them as disrespectful.
Figures like Johnny Mercer, Andy McNab, Lord West, and General
Sir Patrick Sanders emphasized the sacrifices of 636 British soldiers in Iraq
and Afghanistan and the close UK-U.S. alliance. Political leaders,
including Shadow Defense Secretary James Cartlidge and former Foreign Secretary
James Cleverly, also criticized Vance, urging him to recognize
the shared sacrifices. Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted national pride
in the military and stressed the need for mutual respect among allies.
In response, Vance clarified his remarks were not aimed at the UK or France,
but at nations without recent battlefield experience. Still, the
backlash raised concerns over the importance of diplomatic sensitivity with allies
