United States Vice President JD Vance has rejected claims that he criticized the United Kingdom and France over their commitment to sending peacekeepers to Ukraine, following backlash from politicians and veterans.
Speaking to Fox News’ Sean Hannity on Monday, Vance questioned the effectiveness of a European peacekeeping force, stating that an economic pact with Kyiv would be a “way better security guarantee than 20,000 troops from some random country that hasn’t fought a war in 30 or 40 years.” His remarks sparked criticism in the UK and France, both of which have been involved in US-led military operations over the past two decades.
On Tuesday, Vance clarified his comments on X (formerly Twitter), calling it “absurdly dishonest” to suggest that he was referring to the UK or France. “I don’t even mention the UK or France in the clip, both of whom have fought bravely alongside the US over the last 20 years, and beyond,” he wrote. However, he went on to question the ability of some European nations to contribute meaningfully to peacekeeping efforts in Ukraine.
His remarks came amid tensions following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s recent visit to Washington, where he left the White House without signing a minerals deal. President Donald Trump, accused of sidelining European allies while negotiating directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin, has also cut off military aid to Ukraine.
Vance’s comments drew sharp criticism in Europe. French President Emmanuel Macron’s Renaissance party stated on X, “The French and British soldiers who fought and sometimes died alongside American soldiers deserve better than the disdain of the American vice president.”
In the UK, Conservative MP Ben Obese-Jecty, a veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, called Vance’s remarks “unacceptable” and accused him of disrespecting the sacrifices of British service members. Former junior defense minister Johnny Mercer also weighed in, calling Vance a “clown.”
Despite the backlash, Vance maintained his stance, insisting that a European peacekeeping force would not be a viable solution to securing peace in Ukraine.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/4/vance-denies-criticising-uk-france-over-ukraine-peacekeeping