Rod Stewart Blasts ‘Draft Dodger’ Donald Trump for Disrespecting NATO Troops in Afghanistan

Rock icon Sir Rod Stewart has issued a stinging rebuke to Donald Trump following the president’s controversial remarks regarding the bravery and positioning of NATO forces during the war in Afghanistan.

On Friday, January 23, the 81-year-old musician utilized social media to condemn Trump’s recent assertions that international troops avoided the front lines of the conflict. Stewart, visibly moved, expressed his indignation in a video addressed to his followers.

“I may just be a humble rock star, but I am also a Knight of the Realm and I hold my convictions dearly,” Stewart declared in the Instagram clip. Having been born in the immediate aftermath of World War II, Stewart emphasized his deep-seated reverence for the armed forces. “It wounds me deeply to read that Trump—a man who avoided the draft—has the audacity to criticize our troops for supposedly failing to man the front lines in Afghanistan.”

The legendary singer-songwriter was quick to highlight the grim reality of the conflict, noting the heavy toll paid by British service members. During the protracted campaign, more than 400 UK personnel lost their lives in the line of duty.

“Think of the parents left behind. Reflect on that,” Stewart continued. “Trump’s words paint them almost as cowards, and it is utterly intolerable. I am calling upon Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Nigel Farage to demand a formal apology from him.”

The video featured a series of poignant captions, including “Honor them,” “Disgraceful,” and “Take a stand,” underscored by Stewart’s final salute to the camera.

Stewart’s outcry was sparked by an interview Trump gave to Fox News in Davos, Switzerland. In that exchange, the president claimed that while NATO allies sent troops, they “stayed a little back, a little off the front lines,” suggesting the U.S. never truly relied on its partners for combat support.

This public fallout marks a definitive end to what was once a cordial relationship. Stewart, who resides near Trump in Palm Beach, Florida, previously admitted to attending Trump’s social gatherings. However, in a recent interview with Radio Times, the singer noted that Trump’s character appeared to shift dramatically upon taking office.

“Since he assumed the presidency, he became a different person—someone I no longer recognize,” Stewart remarked. Beyond personal differences, Stewart cited specific foreign policy decisions, including ongoing arms sales, as the primary reason he can no longer maintain a friendship with the former real estate mogul.

Watch Sir Rod Stewart’s full message below:

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