Vance's 'random country' comment ignites UK military outrage
The US Vice President, JD Vance, incited outrage by allegedly calling the United Kingdom a random country that hasn't fought in a war for 30 to 40 years. Later, JD Vance denied making such remarks.
The US Vice President JD Vance faced a wave of criticism after describing the United Kingdom as "a random country that hasn't fought a war in 30 years" during an interview with Fox News. These comments were made in discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding a minerals deal.
Vance's comments met with strong reactions in the United Kingdom. Former Armed Forces Minister James Heappey described them as "sad" and reminded people of the joint operations of British and American soldiers. Liberal Mike Martin, a former major, emphasised that the British fought side by side with Americans in Afghanistan.
On Tuesday, JD Vance denied that the UK hasn't been at war for 30 years after his comments sparked outrage among veterans and politicians. Vice President Donald Trump's response to the reactions was described as "absurdly unfair," he insisted he was not referring to the UK.
Remember that the United Kingdom and France are the only countries that have committed to sending troops to Ukraine as part of the peacekeeping forces.
A total of 636 British soldiers have died in Iraq and Afghanistan, making Vance's comments particularly painful for the United Kingdom. Helen Maguire, a former captain, noted that six soldiers from her regiment did not return from Iraq, and Vance's words are seen as an attempt to erase that history.
I don't even mention the UK or France in the clip, both of whom have fought bravely alongside the US over the last 20 years, and beyond - JD Vance defended himself.
Suspension of aid to Ukraine
Meanwhile, President Trump announced the suspension of military aid to Ukraine, which could impact Ukraine's military resources. This decision is temporary and dependent on the progress of peace negotiations with Russia.
Trump criticised Zelensky, claiming that he is not pursuing peace. These statements came after Zelensky stated that ending the conflict with Russia is "very, very distant." Trump considered these words "the worst that could be spoken.”
