British rock icon Sir Rod Stewart has launched a scathing attack on former US President Donald Trump, branding him a "draft dodger" following controversial remarks about NATO troops' involvement in Afghanistan. The 81-year-old musician, who was once a neighbour of Trump in Palm Beach, expressed being "deeply hurt" by what he called "unbearable" comments questioning the bravery of coalition forces.
Stewart's Emotional Response to Trump's Claims
In a heartfelt video posted to his Instagram account, the "Maggie May" singer directly addressed Trump's recent interview with Fox News, where the former president downplayed NATO's contribution in Afghanistan. Trump had suggested that allied troops "stayed a little back, a little off the front lines" during the conflict that began in 2001.
"I was born just after World War II, and I'd like respect for our armed forces who fought and gave us our freedom," Stewart stated emotionally. "So it hurts me badly, deeply, that I read the draft dodger Trump is criticising our troops in Afghanistan for not being on the front line."
Remembering the Fallen
The rock star emphasised the human cost of the conflict, noting: "We lost over 400 of our guys. Think of their parents, think about it, when Trump calls them almost like cowards. It's unbearable." Official figures reveal that more than 1,100 non-US coalition fighters died in Afghanistan, with the overwhelming majority coming from NATO countries, while over 2,300 members of the US armed forces were killed.
Stewart, who described himself as "just a humble rock star" and "a knight of the realm," called on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to make "draft dodger Trump apologise" for his remarks. The Independent has contacted the White House for comment regarding Stewart's statements.
From Neighbours to Political Adversaries
The public condemnation marks a significant shift in the relationship between the two high-profile figures. Stewart revealed in previous interviews that he used to know Trump "very, very well" and would attend his Christmas parties when they were neighbours in Florida's exclusive Palm Beach community. However, the musician confirmed they were no longer friends after Trump became president.
Royal and Political Reactions
Trump's comments have drawn criticism from various quarters beyond the music world. Prince Harry, who completed two frontline tours in Afghanistan as a British Army officer, responded to the remarks on Friday evening. The Duke of Sussex stated that the sacrifices of British soldiers "deserve to be spoken about truthfully and with respect."
Following a phone conversation with Prime Minister Starmer, Trump later appeared to backtrack on his initial statements. In a post on his Truth Social platform, the former president paid tribute to "the great and very brave soldiers of the United Kingdom," acknowledging that 457 British personnel died in Afghanistan with many more injured.
"The U.K. Military, with tremendous Heart and Soul, is second to none (except for the U.S.A.!)," Trump wrote. "We love you all, and always will!" This partial retraction came after significant backlash from veterans, politicians, and public figures across Europe and beyond.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions regarding historical military contributions and the importance of accurate representation of allied forces' sacrifices in international conflicts. Stewart's intervention adds a prominent celebrity voice to the debate about how political leaders discuss military service and honour those who serve in combat zones.
