Downing Street rejected Pete Hegseth's claim that most non-US Nato forces did not fight in Afghanistan, saying the US defence secretary was wrong to downplay allied combat roles. The Guardian reports that No 10 emphasised the sacrifices made by UK troops in the conflict.
The criticism came as Downing Street sought to distance itself from Donald Trump's apparent softening stance towards Russia. No 10 stated that the UK's support for Ukraine remains "unwavering," signalling a divergence from the incoming US administration's approach to Moscow.
Hegseth, Trump's defence secretary, had made statements about the limited combat contribution of non-US Nato allies in Afghanistan. Downing Street directly contradicted this characterisation, underscoring the role played by allied forces in joint operations.
The timing of No 10's response reflects broader tensions between the UK and the incoming Trump administration over policy towards Russia and Ukraine. While Trump has indicated a willingness to negotiate with Russia, the British government emphasised its commitment to supporting Ukraine remains firm and unchanged.