UK Defence Secretary Reacts to Trump’s ‘Controversial’ VP Pick Amidst Tensions Over ‘Islamist Country’ Remark

UK Defense Secretary John Healey commented to Sky News' Sophie Ridge that it was expected for Trump to choose a 'controversial' vice-presidential candidate, stating that the portrayal by the potential future VP is unrecognizable to anyone in the nation.

Politics correspondent @NifS

Tuesday, July 16, 2024, 7:

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UK Defence Secretary John Healey has expressed that it is "no surprise" given the "controversial" nature of presidential candidate Donald Trump, that he would select a similarly "controversial" vice-presidential running mate for the US election.

During the Republican National Convention held in Milwaukee, 39-year-old Ohio Senator JD Vance was appointed to his position last night.

During his speech at the National Conservicism conference in Washington DC, he claimed that following Labour's victory in the general election, the UK became the "first truly Islamist country" to possess nuclear capabilities.

Live Politics Update: Rayner Responds to Trump's VP Choice's Remarks on 'Islamist Country'

Speaking to Sky News' Sophy Ridge, Mr. Healey remarked, "I don't believe anyone in Britain would acknowledge that depiction."

When pressed about whether the choice was inappropriate, the minister responded, "Well, politics is contentious. You know, President Trump is contentious. It's not unexpected that he would choose someone who is also contentious as a vice presidential candidate.

"Ultimately, the decision of whom the American people choose as their president and vice-president rests solely with them."

Stay informed about the most recent developments in the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

During his appearance on the Politics Hub program, which will be broadcast at 7pm this evening, Mr. Healey remarked that the UK and the US have historically maintained a "strong partnership", emphasizing that the new Labour administration is committed to collaborating with any leader chosen by the American electorate.

He noted: "The core alliance within NATO has weathered various political fluctuations across the Atlantic in the past."

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Mr. Healey declined to comment on Mr. Vance's views regarding Ukraine, despite the potential vice-president's critical perspective on U.S. financial support for the conflict.

Rather than concurring directly, the UK minister referenced the decisions made during the recent NATO summit and mentioned his own discussions with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy following his rise to power when questioned about his agreement.

Discover further: Understanding JD Vance. How might Vance influence Ukraine and NATO's future?

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"Mr. Healey stated that they have committed to providing Ukraine with annual support of £3 billion for this year and for each subsequent year through the end of the decade."

"We will collaborate with them to explore ways to assist in their struggle against Putin's unlawful incursion, and to also guide other allies in increasing their support."

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