THE ROYAL British Legion has hit out at derogatory comments made by American President Donald Trump.
Mr Trump said in an interview that ‘NATO troops serving in Afghanistan stayed a little off the frontline’ during the war there.
And he questioned NATO, adding he was not sure the alliance would ‘be there if we (America) ever needed them’.
Speaking on FOX News he said: “We’ve never needed them.
“They’ll say they sent some troops to Afghanistan… and they did, they stayed a little back, a little off the frontlines.”
The UK lost 457 servicemen in the conflict and hundreds more were injured, including the loss of limbs and Mr Trump’s comments have been met by anger and disbelief.
Kidderminster RBL Director General, Mark Atkinson, said: ‘The service and sacrifice of British personnel in Afghanistan cannot be called into question, and we condemn any comments that undermine their extraordinary contribution.
“457 British personnel lost their lives in Afghanistan and thousands more and their families now live with the lifelong physical and mental impact from service in that conflict.
“The dedication and sacrifices of the men and women in the British Armed Forces from the UK, Commonwealth, and beyond, to protect our freedoms and support our allies deserves our deep and ongoing respect and gratitude.
“Our nation’s support for our Armed Forces is never in doubt.
“The Royal British Legion through our ongoing work to recognise, remember, and support the Armed Forces community, ensures that their unique contribution is not forgotten.
“This recognition is shared across communities, cultures, and faiths.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also rounded on the American President and called out Mr Trump’s comments, labelling them ‘insulting and frankly appalling’.
The RBL added anyone affected by the news who needed to talk or support could call 0808 8028080 between 8am and 8pm.
