Trump in scandal over 'cowardice' remarks on British troops

Donald Trump is facing furious demands to apologize for his remarks about the «cowardice» of British troops in Afghanistan from the families of fallen soldiers. The demand came after the stepmother of Private Gareth Bellingham said she wants a personal apology from the former president.

Trump, 79, sparked outrage earlier by claiming NATO troops avoided the front lines during the 2001 invasion of Afghanistan. Private Bellingham, from Stoke-on-Trent, died at age 22 in 2011 while clearing mines in Helmand Province.

His stepmother, Kim Bellingham, said of Trump«s words: »It was extremely painful and made me very angry.« She emphasized that British soldiers in Afghanistan »worked incredibly hard« and all deserve an apology.

Mrs. Bellingham also stated: «I would like to meet Trump — I would like to take him to Gareth»s grave.« She added: »Wake up, find better advisors, come and see the reality of losing a child in a conflict.«

Trump initially accused allies of staying «somewhat back» from the front line, but after a wave of criticism from army chiefs, UK politicians, King Charles III, and even his former friend, singer Rod Stewart, he was forced to soften his words and praise British soldiers.

Stewart, 81, in a social media video called Trump a «draft dodger,» reminding that he avoided service in Vietnam on medical grounds in his youth. A total of 457 British service personnel died in the Afghan conflict. More than 1,100 non-American coalition troops and over 2,300 American military also lost their lives.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Trump«s comments »offensive and appalling,« Prince Harry said NATO troops deserve respect, and King Charles reportedly expressed »concern« over Trump»s remarks. It is reported that Mrs. Bellingham«s demand could prompt a petition from bereaved families calling for Trump to visit the graves and offer a »mass apology.« This could become a serious public humiliation for the former president.