A legendary voice has risen in protest against deeply offensive remarks. Sir Rod Stewart, the iconic singer, has publicly condemned US President Donald Trump’s recent criticisms of British troops who served in Afghanistan, igniting a firestorm of reaction.
Despite a past friendship forged through shared Florida residency, Stewart didn’t hesitate to call for action. He implored Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and even Reform UK leader Nigel Farage to pressure Trump into issuing a formal apology for suggesting allied forces weren’t fully engaged on the front lines.
Trump’s comments, delivered to Fox News, sparked immediate outrage. He claimed the US “never needed” its NATO allies, adding that their troops “stayed a little back.” Sir Keir Starmer swiftly labeled the remarks “insulting and frankly appalling,” directly confronting Trump on the issue.
Stewart took to Instagram, stating he felt compelled to speak out, not just as a rock star, but as a Knight of the Realm. Born shortly after the Second World War, he expressed profound respect for the sacrifices made by British armed forces in securing the nation’s freedom.
The singer didn’t mince words, branding Trump a “draft dodger.” He articulated the deep pain caused by the implication that British troops hadn’t fully committed themselves, highlighting the loss of over 400 British lives in Afghanistan and the anguish of their families.
“It’s unbearable,” Stewart declared, passionately urging Starmer to demand an apology from Trump. The “draft dodger” accusation refers to Trump’s controversial avoidance of military service during the Vietnam War, reportedly due to medical deferments for bone spurs.
Archived documents reveal Trump underwent eight assessments for military service but was never enlisted, ultimately disqualified following a physical examination. Allegations have surfaced suggesting a doctor provided a favorable diagnosis to help him evade the draft as a favor to his father.
While Stewart himself was too young for national service, his father served with distinction during WWII as an Air Raid Precautions officer, bravely rescuing children from bomb sites. This personal connection to wartime service clearly fueled Stewart’s outrage.
Stewart has consistently demonstrated support for the military, performing at the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance and actively championing veterans’ causes. His voice carries significant weight, amplifying the widespread condemnation of Trump’s remarks.
Following his conversation with Sir Keir Starmer, Trump responded with a social media post, praising British troops as “great and very brave.” He acknowledged the sacrifices made in Afghanistan, emphasizing the unbreakable bond between the US and the UK.
He concluded by stating the UK military is “second to none (except for the USA!),” and affirmed his enduring affection for British service members. While not a direct apology, the message represents a shift in tone following the initial controversy.
