New Zealand Envoy Sacked After Trump Remarks in UK

Phil Goff, New Zealand's High Commissioner to the UK, has been dismissed over remarks he made about US President Trump. The comments were made at a Chatham House event in London where Goff questioned Finland's Foreign Minister, Elina Valtonen, about Trump's understanding of history. Goff referred to a Winston Churchill quote and asked if Trump truly understood historical context. Goff quoted Churchill: "You had the choice between war and dishonor. You chose dishonor, yet you will have war."

New Zealand's Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, stated that the remarks made Goff's position untenable. Peters said: "When you are in that position you represent the government and the policies of the day." Peters emphasized that in such roles, individuals represent their government's policies. Goff has held the diplomatic role since January 2023. Official discussions are ongoing about his return to New Zealand. Goff has not yet commented on the situation.

Former Prime Minister Helen Clark criticized Goff's dismissal. She posted on social media, calling it a "very thin excuse" for removing a respected former foreign minister. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)