Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged the UK and its allies to send non-combat troops to Ukraine without delay, positing that such a move could significantly alter Russian President Vladimir Putin’s calculations. In an exclusive interview with Laura Kuenssberg on BBC, Johnson, joined by Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, emphasised the importance of showing solidarity with Ukraine during this tumultuous time.
A Call for Action
Johnson asserted that deploying troops to peaceful regions of Ukraine could serve as a strong message of support. “If we can have a plan for boots on the ground after the war, then why not do it now?” he questioned, indicating that such a presence could help to “flip a switch” in Putin’s mindset. The UK government is currently formulating a “coalition of the willing” to ensure peace and stability in Ukraine, but this plan hinges on a ceasefire agreement.
This discussion comes just days ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Johnson, who was in office during the onset of the conflict, reflected on missed opportunities to deter Putin’s aggression, particularly following the annexation of Crimea in 2014. He and Radakin recalled the critical moments when the decision was made to support Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the early days of the invasion.
Slow Western Response
Both Johnson and Radakin expressed concern that Western allies have been excessively cautious in their support for Ukraine. They highlighted a pattern of what Radakin termed “incrementalism,” which has often delayed the delivery of vital military assistance. Johnson remarked that this hesitancy has cost lives, asserting that the UK and its allies have consistently postponed necessary support. “We’ve always delayed needlessly,” he stated.
He reiterated that the real issue lies in the perception that the West has not demonstrated a firm commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty. “Until Putin believes we regard Ukraine as a vital strategic objective, he will continue his aggression,” Johnson warned.
The Risks of Deployment
While Johnson’s proposal could signal a shift in the West’s approach, it also carries considerable risk. The presence of international troops, even in non-combat roles, may provoke a strong reaction from Putin, who has previously characterised such deployments as “legitimate targets.” The Ministry of Defence responded to Johnson’s remarks by affirming the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine while focusing on securing peace in the future.
Radakin called for the UK to fulfil its pledge of investing 3.5% of national income in defence by 2035, highlighting the need for robust military preparedness in light of the ongoing conflict. He stated, “We are safe as a country at the moment… but we need to invest in our defence to ensure long-term security.”
Historical Context and Future Implications
Johnson lamented the West’s historical failures to act decisively against Putin’s provocations, particularly regarding Crimea and the Syrian civil war. He argued that these missteps emboldened the Russian leader, ultimately leading to the current crisis. “The ambiguity of the Western position has harmed Ukraine,” he said, stressing that clear and resolute support could have altered the course of events.
As the conflict approaches its grim anniversary, Johnson’s comments reflect a growing frustration with the pace of international support for Ukraine. The former Prime Minister’s call for immediate action underscores a belief that the time for hesitation has passed.
Why it Matters
Johnson’s advocacy for the deployment of non-combat troops marks a significant and potentially controversial shift in the Western approach to the Ukraine conflict. This proposal not only highlights the urgent need for a more assertive stance but also raises critical questions about the implications of such a move for international relations and geopolitical stability. The response of Western allies and the Kremlin to this suggestion could redefine the dynamics of the ongoing conflict and the future of Ukraine as a sovereign state.