Sir Keir Starmer didn’t need to name names. His words spoke volumes. As he stood in the House of Commons during Prime Minister’s Questions, he paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of British troops, just days after US Vice President JD Vance seemingly questioned the UK’s military record.
With a steely tone, the Labour leader reminded the Commons that Thursday would mark 13 years since six young British soldiers lost their lives while on patrol in Afghanistan. It would also be 18 years since Royal Marine Benjamin Reddy was killed in Helmand province.
“642 people died in Afghanistan and Iraq fighting for Britain alongside our allies,” Starmer declared. “We will never forget their bravery and their sacrifice.”
Though he never mentioned the US or Vance directly, the timing and intent were unmistakable. His words followed fierce backlash over comments made by the US vice president, who appeared to downplay the UK’s military engagements over the past few decades.
A ‘Disrespectful’ Remark?
Vance had sparked controversy during an interview with Fox News, where he discussed a potential peacekeeping force in Ukraine. In a remark that ruffled feathers across the Atlantic, he referred to “20,000 troops from some random country that hasn’t fought a war in 30 or 40 years.”
Given that the UK and France are currently the only nations to have pledged troops for such a mission, it didn’t take long for critics to accuse him of disrespecting British forces.
Vance, however, was quick to hit back, calling the suggestion that he had meant the UK “absurdly dishonest.” But the damage was already done.
Calls for Respect
Sir Keir’s spokesperson remained diplomatic when asked if the prime minister was irritated by the US official’s words. Instead, he made it clear that Starmer’s tribute to the fallen was “totally legitimate” given the upcoming anniversaries.
Liberal Democrat MP and former Army officer Richard Foord was more forthright. During PMQs, he recalled speaking to the grandfather of a soldier who had lost his life in Iraq.
“The vice president should have a lot more respect for those who lost their lives,” Foord said pointedly. He then asked if Starmer would remind the US of Britain’s steadfast support in the wake of 9/11.
Starmer didn’t hesitate. “We do remember the role that we’ve 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.”
Beyond Words – The Need for Unity
Beyond the immediate row over Vance’s remarks, Starmer used his platform to emphasise the importance of unity between the US, Europe, and Ukraine. He revealed that he had spoken with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy just the day before, reinforcing his commitment to securing lasting peace.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch pressed him on what he was doing to convince the US of the importance of providing a security guarantee for Ukraine. In response, Starmer reassured Parliament that discussions were already in motion.
“On Thursday of last week, we discussed security guarantees,” he said. “The [US] president made absolutely clear his commitment to Article 5 of NATO. Absolutely clear he would have our backs.”
Under Article 5, an attack on one NATO member is considered an attack on all, requiring a collective response, something Starmer appeared confident would hold firm.
A Moment for Reflection
While diplomatic tensions flared over Vance’s comments, the core message of Starmer’s speech was clear: Britain remembers its fallen heroes, and their sacrifices must never be downplayed.
For the families of those who served and for veterans who fought on the frontlines, words matter. And when it comes to acknowledging the courage of British troops, silence is not an option.
