The response from the United Kingdom to Vance’s remarks was both swift and sharply pointed, leaving little doubt that his comments had struck a sensitive nerve across the Atlantic. Across the country, British veterans, military figures, and former service members voiced strong condemnation, emphasizing the gravity of the statement in the context of the sacrifices made by their armed forces. They highlighted, with somber pride, the 636 British soldiers who tragically lost their lives during the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan—men and women whose courage and dedication were now, in their view, being undermined by the tone of Vance’s remarks.
Prominent veterans, including well-known figures such as Johnny Mercer, the former Army officer turned Member of Parliament, and Andy McNab, the celebrated author and ex-special forces operative, publicly criticized Vance. They stressed that his comments displayed a troubling lack of respect for allied forces who had fought side by side with the United States in some of the most dangerous theaters of recent history. According to these veterans, such statements risked diminishing the recognition and honor due to those who had risked everything in service to their countries.
Adding weight to the criticism, former military leaders, including Lord West, a retired Admiral of the Royal Navy, and General Sir Patrick Sanders, the Chief of the General Staff, also expressed their strong disapproval. They emphasized the deep and enduring bonds between the British and American armed forces, forged through shared hardships, mutual trust, and the ultimate sacrifices made on foreign soil. In their statements, they made it clear that such comments were not only inaccurate but also damaging to the spirit of collaboration that has long defined UK–U.S. military relations.
Political leaders in the United Kingdom quickly aligned with this sentiment. Shadow Defense Secretary James Cartlidge publicly underscored Britain’s substantial contributions to global military operations alongside the U.S., pointing to decades of shared missions, campaigns, and the lives lost in the line of duty. He described Vance’s remarks as “deeply disrespectful” and stressed that they overlooked the shared values and enduring commitments that unite allied forces. Meanwhile, former Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, along with several other Members of Parliament, joined in the criticism, calling for Vance to formally acknowledge the historical ties and sacrifices of both British and American troops.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer added his voice to the chorus, reiterating the nation’s pride in the bravery and dedication of its military personnel. He stressed that the United Kingdom has long relied on mutual respect and trust with its allies, and that maintaining this respect is essential not only for diplomatic and military collaboration but also for honoring the memory of those who have fallen. Starmer’s remarks highlighted the importance of acknowledging shared history, remembering sacrifices, and ensuring that rhetoric from international figures does not erode the solidarity between the UK and the U.S., two nations bound by a long legacy of friendship and military cooperation.