More than 20 Members of Parliament are urging FIFA to remove the United States from the World Cup due to President Donald Trump’s alleged violations of international law. The bipartisan group is particularly concerned about the U.S.’s actions in Venezuela and Trump’s perceived threats towards Denmark, Cuba, and Colombia. Trump has been accused of unlawfully ordering a military operation to apprehend Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
Criticism has mounted following reports that the White House is considering acquiring Greenland, a Danish territory. Additionally, Trump’s remarks warning Colombian President Gustavo Petro and expressing intentions towards Cuba and Mexico have raised alarm among the MPs. The group of 21 MPs is advocating for a ban on the U.S. from major international sporting events, citing concerns over the “abduction” of Maduro and threats made against sovereign states.
Labour MP Brian Leishman, who initiated the motion, criticized what he perceives as a double standard in the international community and sports organizations, pointing out FIFA’s previous recognition of Donald Trump. The motion highlights the MPs’ belief that Trump’s actions undermine the international order and that sporting events should not endorse violations of international law by powerful nations.
In response to the situation, the UK Government has emphasized that it is the responsibility of the White House to justify its actions in Venezuela. Maduro and his wife have been detained and transported to the U.S., where they are facing conspiracy charges. The U.S. has labeled Maduro a “narco-terrorist,” while he maintains he is a “kidnapped president” and a “prisoner of war.” The UK has expressed solidarity with Denmark after Trump’s controversial remarks about Greenland.
Opposition leader Keir Starmer has stressed that the fate of Greenland should be determined by its people and Denmark, following discussions with the U.S. President. The U.S. is currently considered an outsider in the upcoming World Cup, with odds of 50/1, having qualified for numerous tournaments in the past.