A coalition of over 20 Members of Parliament has urged FIFA to consider expelling the United States from the World Cup due to President Donald Trump’s alleged breaches of international law. The group cited concerns over the US government’s involvement in Venezuela and the President’s perceived threats towards Denmark, Cuba, and Colombia. Trump has faced accusations of unlawfully ordering a military operation to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
The MPs expressed growing outrage following reports that the White House is contemplating seizing Greenland, a territory of Denmark. Additionally, Trump’s comments targeting Colombian President Gustavo Petro and insinuating potential actions against Cuba and Mexico have intensified calls for action against the US in major global sporting events.
Labour MP Brian Leishman, who spearheaded the motion, criticized what he deemed as a lack of consistency in addressing international violations. The group emphasized that Trump’s conduct undermines the established international order and should not be condoned through participation in sporting events. Members of various political parties, including Labour, the Liberal Democrats, and Plaid Cymru, joined the initiative to oppose perceived double standards in upholding global norms.
The USA, currently considered as outsiders with odds of 50/1 to win the upcoming World Cup, has been drawn into a group with Paraguay and Australia. The UK government has deferred to the White House to justify its actions in Venezuela, where Maduro and his wife were reportedly taken into US custody.
Amidst the geopolitical tensions, the UK has expressed solidarity with Denmark over concerns about Greenland’s sovereignty. Opposition figures like Keir Starmer have called for respect for the autonomy of Greenland and Denmark, highlighting the need for diplomatic engagement with the US on the matter.