UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has honored British veterans who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan following US Vice-President JD Vance’s criticism for reportedly disrespecting UK soldiers.

Without quoting Vance’s words, Starmer began Prime Minister’s Questions by remembering those who “died fighting for Britain alongside our allies.” His words followed Vance’s assertion that an American economic interest in Ukraine was a more secure interest than sending “20,000 troops from some random country that hasn’t fought a war in 30 or 40 years.”

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The vice-president’s remarks, which were made on Tuesday, were met with criticism since the UK and France have both signaled their readiness to deploy troops to Ukraine as part of a peace deal. But Vance later maintained that he did not mention either country specifically.

Keir Starmer Highlights Veterans’ Sacrifices

Addressing the House of Commons, the prime minister highlighted the British soldiers’ sacrifice. “Tomorrow marks 13 years since six young British soldiers were on patrol in Afghanistan when their vehicle was struck by an explosive tragically killing them all,” he stated.

He went on, “These men fought and died for their country, our country. And across the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, 642 individuals died fighting for Britain alongside our allies, many more were wounded. We will never forget their bravery and their sacrifice, and I know the whole House will join me in remembering them and all those who serve our country.”

MPs Slam Vance’s Comments

Liberal Democrat MP Richard Foord subsequently expressed his concern about Vance’s words, calling on the UK government to remind the US of Britain’s support for Iraq after the 9/11 attacks.

In reply, Keir Starmer confirmed, “He speaks for the whole house. We do remember the role we played historically with our allies and we particularly remember those that made the ultimate sacrifice in that duty for their country and for our allies and that’s why it’s so important that we make that point today.”