A group of more than 20 Members of Parliament (MPs) has urged FIFA to expel the United States from the World Cup due to alleged violations of international law by President Donald Trump. The MPs accuse Trump of making threats against several countries, including Venezuela, Denmark, Cuba, and Colombia.
The MPs are calling for a ban on the USA from major global sporting events, citing concerns over the “kidnapping” of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and threats made against sovereign states. Labour MP Brian Leishman, who initiated the motion, criticized what he described as hypocrisy within the international community and sporting bodies for awarding honors to Trump despite his controversial actions.
The motion highlights concerns that Trump’s behavior undermines the international order based on rules and emphasizes that powerful states should not be allowed to normalize violations of international law through sports events. The group of MPs also called on the Government to oppose double standards in enforcing international norms.
Regarding the recent events involving Venezuela, the UK Government has stated that it is the responsibility of the White House to justify the operation. Maduro and his wife are currently facing conspiracy charges in the US after being captured and flown there following the operation.
In response to Trump’s threats against Greenland, Denmark, and other nations, British officials have expressed solidarity with Denmark and emphasized the importance of respecting the right of Greenland and Denmark to determine their own fate. Despite the controversy, the USA remains a 50/1 outsider in the upcoming World Cup, having qualified for numerous tournaments since 1930.