NATO Service Recognized as Prince Harry Responds to Criticism of Allied Troops

Britain’s Prince Harry has issued a public statement emphasizing that the sacrifices made by NATO troops in Afghanistan should be acknowledged “truthfully and with respect,” following comments by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting that non‑American forces stayed away from front‑line combat.

Prince Harry, who completed two tours of duty in Afghanistan, said he had “made lifelong friends” during his service and “lost friends there,” noting that the United Kingdom alone lost 457 service personnel in the conflict. He added that “thousands of lives were changed forever,” highlighting the long‑term impact on families who lost loved ones or continue to live with the consequences of the war.

Trump’s remarks, made during a media interview, drew criticism from British political leaders and veterans’ groups, who described the comments as inaccurate and hurtful to those who served. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the statements “insulting and frankly, appalling,” while the Royal British Legion said the service of British personnel “cannot be called into question.”

NATO first invoked Article 5—the alliance’s collective defence clause—after the 11 September 2001 attacks, prompting allied nations to join the U.S.-led mission in Afghanistan. More than 150,000 British troops served throughout the conflict, contributing to combat operations, training missions, and security efforts.

Prince Harry’s response underscores the sensitivity surrounding public discussion of the Afghanistan war, particularly for veterans and families affected by the two‑decade‑long mission. His remarks also reflect ongoing diplomatic tensions triggered by Trump’s comments, which have been widely challenged by European allies who maintain that their forces played a significant and often dangerous role in the conflict.