Prince Harry has broken his silence on Donald Trump's Afghanistan comments with a fresh statement.
The US President had sparked backlash by suggesting some Nato allies stayed away from the front line in Afghanistan.
In response, the Duke of Sussex told GB News: “In 2001, Nato invoked Article 5 for the first—and only—time in history.
"It meant that every allied nation was obliged to stand with the United States in Afghanistan, in pursuit of our shared security. Allies answered that call.
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Prince Harry served two tours of Afghanistan | GETTY"I served there. I made lifelong friends there. And I lost friends there.
"The United Kingdom alone had 457 service personnel killed.
"Thousands of lives were changed forever. Mothers and fathers buried sons and daughters.
"Children were left without a parent. Families are left carrying the cost.
"Those sacrifices deserve to be spoken about truthfully and with respect, as we all remain united and loyal to the defence of diplomacy and peace.”
President Trump was criticised for comments made in a Fox News interview in Davos in which he suggested Nato allies stayed “a little off the frontlines” in Afghanistan.
He also questioned whether the alliance would come to the US if it ever needed help.
UK figures across politics hit back at the claim, pointing to the scale of British and allied losses during the 20-year mission.
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Prince Harry served as a veteran until 2015
|JOHN STILLWELL
Downing Street said President Trump was "wrong to diminish the role of Nato troops" during two decades of war and highlighted that 457 British personnel were killed in Afghanistan.
Sir Keir Starmer additionally called the remarks “insulting and frankly appalling” and urged an apology.
Prince Harry served in Afghanistan during his military career, completing two operational tours.
In 2014, the Duke of Sussex founded the Invictus Games, with Invictus meaning "unconquered," to showcase the resilience of the military community.
Prince Harry pictured whilst serving as a veteran
|JOHN STILLWELL
The Games provide a platform for physical and mental healing, encouraging participants to focus on their potential and strength rather than their injuries.
In addition, they bring together nations to recognise the sacrifices made by veterans and serving personnel.
In 2027, the Invictus Games will be held in Birmingham, marking the first time they have returned to the UK since 2014.
It is not yet confirmed whether Meghan Markle, Harry's wife, will accompany the duke to the Games, as she has not travelled to Britain since 2022.