In a bold move, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged the UK and its allies to send non-combat troops to Ukraine without delay. Speaking on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Johnson argued that such a deployment could shift the dynamics of the ongoing conflict with Russia, challenging President Vladimir Putin’s aggressive stance. His comments come as the war approaches its fourth anniversary, raising questions about the international community’s response and future strategies.
A Call to Action
Johnson, appearing alongside former chief of the armed forces, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, advocated for the immediate deployment of troops to peaceful regions of Ukraine. He posed a provocative question: if there are plans for a military presence post-war, why not take action now? “If we can have a plan for boots on the ground after the war, then why not do it now?” he asked, highlighting a perceived inconsistency in current military strategy.
The UK government is currently collaborating with allies to establish a “coalition of the willing” aimed at stabilising Ukraine, contingent on a ceasefire agreement. However, Johnson’s suggestion to send troops to assist in non-combat roles has sparked debate over the implications of such a move.
Reflecting on Missed Opportunities
As the anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches, Johnson reflected on the conflict’s origins. He lamented that the situation could have been averted had Western nations acted more decisively in response to Putin’s earlier aggressions, notably the annexation of Crimea in 2014. “The failure to confront Putin over Crimea was tragic,” he stated, suggesting that Western hesitance has emboldened the Kremlin.
Both Johnson and Radakin expressed frustration over the slow pace of military support from Western allies. They described a pattern of incremental assistance, often delayed, which has cost lives. “We’ve always delayed needlessly,” Johnson remarked, reinforcing his belief that a more assertive stance could have changed the course of events.
The Political Landscape
Johnson’s call for troop deployment is not without controversy. Defence Secretary John Healey reiterated that British forces would only be sent once a peace deal is secured. His position underscores the UK’s commitment to providing military aid and sanctions against Russia, rather than engaging in direct involvement during ongoing hostilities.
In response to Johnson’s assertion, a Ministry of Defence spokesperson emphasised the UK’s leadership in supporting Ukraine, citing significant military aid, including a recent half-billion-pound air defence package. The spokesperson added that the government is working with over 30 nations to ensure long-term stability in the region.
A New Approach to Strategy
Johnson’s proposal to send troops now highlights a potential shift in strategy that could reshape the Coalition’s approach to the conflict. While the idea of deploying forces is fraught with risks—especially considering Putin’s previous statements that any foreign troops would be “legitimate targets”—it opens up discussions about creating safe zones or other support measures.
By advocating for immediate action, Johnson aims to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine and signal to Putin that Western resolve is unyielding. The former Prime Minister believes that only through escalated pressure can peace be achieved, arguing that the current trajectory is insufficient for meaningful change.
Why it Matters
Boris Johnson’s push for non-combat troop deployment underscores a critical juncture in the Ukraine conflict. As the war drags on, the question of how the West responds is more pressing than ever. His comments reflect a growing frustration with the slow pace of support and a call for decisive action that may alter the conflict’s trajectory. The implications of such a move could resonate deeply within international relations and the future stability of Eastern Europe, making it crucial for governments to reconsider their strategies in response to ongoing aggression.