Hegseth wrong to say most non-US Nato forces in Afghanistan did not fight, says No 10

The UK government has sharply criticised a former Trump administration official for understating the contributions of NATO allies in Afghanistan, marking a rare public rebuke. While tensions with the US over Ukraine policy grow, Downing Street has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine despite shifting American approaches toward Russia. The statement highlights a growing divergence between British and US stances on military alliances and international conflict. Readers interested in the evolving transatlantic relationship and UK foreign policy will find key insights in this developing story.

Downing Street emphasises sacrifices of UK troops and reasserts ‘unwavering’ support for Ukraine amid softening US policy towards RussiaUK politics live – latest updatesDowning Street has criticised Pete Hegseth for downplaying the role of Nato allies in helping the US with combat operations in Afghanistan, saying Donald Trump’s defence secretary had been wrong to do so.The direct condemnation came as No 10 more carefully distanced itself from Trump’s increasing willingness to engage with Russia, saying the UK’s backing for Ukraine was “unwavering”. Continue reading...