Former UK Prime Minister Urges Troops for Ukraine

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has called for Britain and its European allies to send non-combat troops to Ukraine immediately. He believes this action would demonstrate to Russian President Vladimir Putin that the West is committed to Ukraine’s freedom and independence.

In an interview with the BBC, ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Johnson suggested that troops should be deployed to non-combat areas. His comments reflect his longstanding support for Ukraine, particularly during the early days of the conflict.

If his proposals are taken up, it would represent a significant shift in policy for the UK and its allies. Discussions are ongoing about sending troops to Ukraine, but such a deployment would only occur after a cease-fire is established, primarily to monitor that ceasefire.

Johnson observed, “If we’re going to do it in the context of a ceasefire, which, of course, shifts all the control to President Putin, why not take action now?” He added, “I see no logical reason why we shouldn’t send in peaceful ground forces to show our support for a free and independent Ukraine.”

However, Western military planners have generally refrained from public discussions about this idea, worrying that Russia might interpret such a move as escalating the conflict.

In a previous statement, Putin dismissed a Western suggestion for a peacekeeping force in Ukraine, claiming that any troops sent would be considered a “legitimate target.” Johnson argued that Putin should not have the authority to determine the fate of Ukraine and its allies.

“The real question is whether Ukraine is a free nation,” he said. “If Putin’s aim is to turn it into a vassal state, then it’s his choice who enters his country. On the other hand, if Ukraine is to remain free, the decision rests with them.”

When asked to respond to Johnson’s remarks, the UK Ministry of Defense stated that the government continues to collaborate with allied nations on the possibility of troop deployment following a ceasefire.

The ministry outlined, “A multinational force in Ukraine, led by Britain, will promote long-term peace. The Prime Minister has made it clear that British troops will stay on the ground after hostilities conclude.”

Johnson also pointed to the war in Ukraine as a consequence of the West’s previous failure to support Ukraine after Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea. He highlighted the lack of repercussions for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for using chemical weapons and criticized the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

“I think Putin was encouraged by the West’s inability to hold Assad accountable,” Johnson commented. “In February 2022, his confidence grew even more, influenced by the scenes in Afghanistan, where the sense of Western retreat was palpable. It was a significant moment for him.”