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Sir Rod Stewart has publicly criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump over false claims about British military service in Afghanistan, calling on UK political leaders to demand an apology from the American politician.
In a passionate video message posted to Instagram on January 23, the 79-year-old rock legend expressed his outrage over Trump’s recent comments that questioned whether NATO allies would support America and suggested some nations, including Britain, avoided front-line combat in Afghanistan.
“I may just be a humble rock star, but I’m also a Knight of the realm, and I have my opinions,” Stewart said in the video. “I was born just after the war, and I have great respect for our armed forces that fought and gave us our freedom.”
The veteran musician, who received his knighthood in 2016, highlighted the significant British casualties during the Afghanistan conflict. “We lost over 400 of our guys,” Stewart emphasized, referring to the 457 UK service personnel killed during the war. “Think of their parents. Think about it. And Trump calls them almost like cowards. It’s unbearable.”
Stewart directly appealed to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage to intervene: “So I’m calling on you, Prime Minister Starmer and Farage, please make the draft dodger Trump apologise. Please.”
The controversial remarks by Trump came during a Fox News interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where he questioned NATO allies’ commitment to mutual defense and characterized some nations as avoiding dangerous combat assignments in Afghanistan.
Prime Minister Starmer has already responded to Trump’s assertions, stating they were “wrong” and describing the claims as “insulting and frankly appalling” given the sacrifice of British forces.
Stewart’s criticism carries additional weight given his previous connection to the former president. The two were once neighbors, but Stewart revealed last year that their relationship changed after Trump took office. “Since he became President, he became another guy. Somebody I didn’t know,” Stewart stated. He added that Trump’s role in supplying weapons to Israel during the ongoing Gaza conflict makes a potential reconciliation unlikely.
The singer’s political interventions have drawn attention previously. Last year, he made headlines when he appeared to endorse Farage and his right-wing Reform UK party, telling The Times, “We’re fed up with the Tories. We’ve got to give Farage a chance. He’s coming across well. What options have we got?”
Stewart’s outspoken stance on Trump comes amid continued tensions between the United States and its traditional allies. Military experts note that British forces played a significant role in Afghanistan operations between 2001 and 2021, often taking on dangerous missions in volatile regions like Helmand Province, where UK troops suffered substantial casualties.
The incident highlights the continuing ripple effects of Trump’s statements on international relations and the emotional impact they can have on nations that have sacrificed alongside American forces in global conflicts.
Meanwhile, Stewart continues to maintain a prominent presence in the music world. Last year, he performed in the coveted legends slot at Glastonbury Festival, where he was joined on stage by fellow musicians Mick Hucknall, Lulu, and Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood. The performance received a four-star review from NME, which praised Stewart’s vocal abilities and showmanship despite the scorching heat affecting crowd energy.
Stewart’s defense of British military service demonstrates how public figures can use their platforms to address political controversies, particularly those touching on matters of national pride and sacrifice.
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12 Comments
Trump’s dismissive comments about UK forces in Afghanistan are disappointing and divisive. The British military’s contributions and losses should not be minimized or disrespected.
Stewart’s passionate defense of the UK military is admirable. Trump should apologize for his false claims and recognize the bravery of our NATO allies in Afghanistan.
Trump’s dismissive comments about British forces in Afghanistan are concerning. The UK made significant contributions and suffered heavy losses – their service should not be diminished.
I hope UK leaders will firmly condemn Trump’s false claims and demand an apology. The sacrifices of British troops deserve recognition, not disrespect.
It’s good to see public figures like Rod Stewart holding Trump accountable for his false claims about British troops. Their service and sacrifice in Afghanistan must be honored.
This is yet another example of Trump making unfounded claims that undermine our allies. The UK’s service and sacrifice in Afghanistan deserve respect, not disparagement.
As a rock legend, Rod Stewart is using his platform to call out Trump’s false claims. It’s heartening to see public figures stand up for the sacrifices made by UK troops.
Absolutely. Stewart’s passionate defense of the UK military is admirable. Trump should apologize and honor the bravery of our allies.
It’s disappointing to see Trump make such unfounded claims about the British military service in Afghanistan. The UK lost over 400 brave soldiers – their sacrifice should be honored, not dismissed.
Agreed. Trump’s comments are disrespectful and divisive. UK leaders should demand an apology to set the record straight.
This is a troubling example of Trump spreading misinformation. The UK suffered heavy casualties in Afghanistan – their commitment to the NATO alliance should not be questioned.
Well said. Stewart is right to call out Trump’s comments as unbearable. The UK’s military sacrifices deserve respect, not disparagement.