Iraq Veteran MP Condemns JD Vance for Disparaging Comments on British Military

JD Vance has been criticized for suggesting that Britain has not fought a war in 30-40 years, disrespecting the contributions of the UK armed forces. Key figures, including Keir Starmer and Helen Maguire, condemned his remarks, emphasizing the bravery of British troops who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Their sacrifices are significant, and calls have been made for Vance to apologize for his statements.

JD Vance, the U.S. Vice President, has faced significant backlash for remarks implying that Britain has not engaged in combat for the past 30 to 40 years. This statement is seen as disrespectful to the memory and service of British troops who fought alongside the U.S. in Iraq and Afghanistan. Notably, 636 British soldiers sacrificed their lives during these conflicts. British MP and Iraq veteran, Keir Starmer, expressed admiration for these troops and criticized Vance for overlooking their sacrifices.

Liberal Democrat defense spokesperson Helen Maguire condemned Vance’s comments, arguing they erase the contributions of British soldiers. She emphasized the cooperation between British and American forces, highlighting the loss of her comrades in the Royal Military Police in Iraq. Maguire has called for Lord Mandelson, the UK Ambassador to the U.S., to seek an official apology from Vance.

During an interview, Vance warned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that substantial guarantees of security should incentivize American involvement in the region, questioning the effectiveness of foreign troops without battlefield experience. He referred to such support as coming from “some random country” lacking recent military engagement. This dismissive language has sparked outrage across British political figures, who argue that such statements disregard the historical contributions of British forces.

Former veterans minister Johnny Mercer labeled Vance a “clown” and criticized him for not recognizing the importance of military service. Mercer noted that Vance’s time in the Marines involved writing rather than actual combat. Tory shadow defense secretary James Cartlidge asserted that disrespecting the service of British troops, who participated during NATO’s invocation of Article 5 after 9/11, is unacceptable. He emphasized the sacrifices made by parliamentary colleagues and the necessity to remember their contributions.

Labour MP David Taylor reaffirmed the sacrifices made by British service members, stressing that Vance’s remarks cannot undermine their legacy or the nation’s gratitude toward them. Britain’s military history, especially the losses in Afghanistan, remains significant, and the contributions of British troops alongside American forces have been recognized historically, including by former president George W. Bush. Vance’s comments follow a pattern of criticism towards European partners, particularly regarding immigration and free speech, further exacerbating tensions.

The controversy surrounding JD Vance’s remarks highlights a disregard for the sacrifices made by British troops. Multiple political figures have condemned his comments, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the collaborative efforts of British and American military forces in past conflicts. Vance’s statements, deemed disrespectful, reflect broader issues in the perception of international alliances and military contributions, which have historical consequences that should not be overlooked.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk