US Vice President JD Vance has sparked outrage among UK politicians after downplaying the value of UK and French military presence in Ukraine. During an interview, Vance stated that 20,000 troops from a country without recent combat experience would be more effective than any peace deal.
UK Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge condemned the remark as “deeply disrespectful” to British soldiers who fought alongside US forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. Conservative MP James Cleverly described Vance’s comment as “foolish and insulting.”
Despite Vance’s explanation, many politicians criticized his tone, with Kemi Badenoch saying she didn’t think he actually said that and Nigel Farage calling him “wrong – wrong, wrong.” Johnny Mercer, a former armed forces minister, called Vance a “clown.”
The Liberal Democrats have demanded an apology from Vance, citing the bravery of British soldiers who fought alongside US troops in Iraq. The UK government has reiterated its support for allies who served with the US in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/mar/04/uk-mps-condemn-deeply-disrespectful-jd-vance-comments