The audience at Question Time showed their approval as Donald Trump was criticized as “a bully” and “an international gangster” during the show. Labour MP Emily Thornberry and another panelist took aim at the US President, particularly his remarks questioning the necessity of NATO and the sacrifice made by UK troops in Afghanistan. Thornberry expressed outrage at Trump’s comments, calling them an insult to the families of the 457 fallen soldiers from the conflict.
The crowd in Macclesfield, Cheshire, reacted with strong applause to Thornberry’s remarks, with one member questioning Trump’s trustworthiness. Thornberry further criticized Trump for lacking military experience and understanding of defense strategies. The President had previously belittled the efforts of British soldiers in Afghanistan, leading to backlash from families of fallen soldiers like Lucy Aldridge.
The discussion continued on Question Time, where Layla Moran, a Liberal Democrat politician, labeled Trump as a bully and an international criminal. Moran emphasized the importance of standing up to authoritarian leaders like Trump and highlighted the need for unity against such behavior.
Trump’s derogatory comments came amidst his attempts to gain control over Greenland and pressure NATO allies. The remarks, made during a TV interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, angered veterans and families of Afghanistan war veterans.