The Prime Minister, speaking in the Commons on Wednesday, said: „The West could not continue this US-led mission – a mission conceived and executed in support and defence of America – without American logistics, without US air power and without American might.“

Challenged on whether Nato could have continued to provide support, he said: „I really think that it is an illusion to believe that there is appetite among any of our partners for a continued military presence.“

Mr Biden‘s comments came in an interview with Good Morning America, in a section about US relations with its allies which was not ultimately broadcast.