In a striking appeal, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has called for the immediate dispatch of non-combat troops to Ukraine, arguing that such a move could shift the dynamic in the ongoing conflict with Russia. Speaking on the BBC’s *Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg*, Johnson asserted that sending troops to peaceful regions would serve as a vital show of support for Ukraine, especially as the war approaches its fourth anniversary.
A Bold Proposal
During the interview, Johnson, alongside former military chief Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, emphasized the importance of demonstrating solidarity with Ukraine. “If we can have a plan for boots on the ground after the war, why not do it now?” Johnson questioned, highlighting the need for proactive measures instead of waiting for a ceasefire. He noted that while the UK government is currently collaborating with allies to establish a “coalition of the willing” to ensure stability in Ukraine, action should not be postponed until after a potential peace deal.
The former prime minister lamented the West’s slow response to Russian aggression, recounting the initial invasion on February 24, 2022, and the subsequent hesitation in supporting President Volodymyr Zelensky. Johnson criticized the cautious approach, which he described as “incrementalism,” pointing out that the delays in delivering requested military support have frustrated Ukraine’s efforts.
Lessons from the Past
Reflecting on the broader geopolitical landscape, Johnson asserted that the ongoing conflict could have been averted had Western nations taken Putin’s actions more seriously, particularly his annexation of Crimea in 2014. He expressed regret over the lack of decisive action during his time in office, stating, “The failure to do anything in Crimea was tragic.” He believes that this negligence has emboldened Putin, who perceives the West as being on the retreat, particularly following the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Johnson’s comments resonate deeply as the war continues to inflict heavy casualties. He maintains that a perceived lack of commitment from the West has allowed Putin to push further without facing significant consequences. “The real problem is that Putin does not yet believe that a free and independent Ukraine is an overwhelming strategic objective for the West,” he asserted.
Military Commitments and Future Plans
The former military chief, Sir Tony Radakin, echoed Johnson’s sentiments, urging the UK government to honour its commitment to increase defence spending to 3.5% of national income by 2035. He highlighted the urgent need for investment in national security, asserting that while the UK is currently safe, the ongoing war in Europe necessitates a robust military strategy.
Radakin’s call for clarity in defence spending comes as the UK continues to provide substantial military aid to Ukraine, including a recent air defence package worth half a billion pounds. The Ministry of Defence reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine, asserting that the government is leading efforts to ensure both immediate military aid and long-term peace negotiations.
Why it Matters
Johnson’s bold call for non-combat troops marks a significant shift in the conversation surrounding international support for Ukraine. As the war rages on, the implications of such a deployment could redefine military engagement in the region, sending a powerful message to both allies and adversaries. The former prime minister’s insistence on acting now rather than waiting for a ceasefire underscores a growing frustration with the pace of response from Western nations. With the lives of countless Ukrainians hanging in the balance, the urgency of decisive action has never been more apparent.
