US President Donald Trump’s recent remarks downplaying the role of NATO allies in the Afghanistan war have sparked strong criticism across Europe. In a Fox News interview, Trump claimed the US “never really needed them” and that allied forces “stayed away from the front lines.”
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius firmly rejected these claims. Speaking to Bild on January 24, 2026, he said: “Our armed forces were ready when our American allies asked for support after the Islamist terrorist attacks of 2001. Germany is deeply grateful for the courage and high professionalism of our soldiers.”
Pistorius reminded that Germany “paid a heavy price” in Afghanistan, with 59 soldiers and three police officers losing their lives, while many wounded continue to suffer from lasting physical and psychological effects. He stressed that the bravery and efforts of German troops in Afghanistan must continue to be honored, regardless of criticism.
Sources - Agencies
