Pete Hegseth Saying 5 Countries Fought in Afghanistan Criticized by Veterans
Summary
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said only a few allied countries fought actively in Afghanistan, which caused criticism from veterans and European politicians. Many NATO and allied countries contributed troops, with over 1,000 non-American soldiers dying during the nearly 20-year conflict.Key Facts
- Pete Hegseth claimed only about one or two allied countries were involved in direct combat in Afghanistan toward the war’s end.
- Over 50 NATO and U.S.-aligned countries sent troops to Afghanistan after 2001 as part of international missions.
- More than 2,400 U.S. service members and over 1,000 allied soldiers, including from Canada, France, the Netherlands, Denmark, Poland, and the UK, died during the war.
- Retired U.S. General Ben Hodges called Hegseth’s comments "shameful" for downplaying allies' sacrifices.
- President Trump also faced criticism earlier for questioning the frontline fighting roles of non-U.S. troops in Afghanistan.
- NATO’s mutual defense clause was activated for the first time after the 9/11 attacks, showing alliance solidarity.
- Poland’s deputy prime minister asked Hegseth to consider the families of fallen Polish soldiers.
- The conflict saw troops from countries far from Afghanistan, such as Mongolia, South Korea, and New Zealand, providing help.
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