In a bold call for action, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged the UK and its allies to send non-combat troops to Ukraine without delay. Speaking on BBC’s *Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg*, Johnson argues that deploying troops now could disrupt Russian President Vladimir Putin’s strategic calculations, enhancing chances for peace.
Drawing a Line in the Sand
In his interview, Johnson posed a provocative question: if a plan exists for deploying troops after a potential ceasefire, why not act now? He believes that establishing a presence in peaceful regions could signal unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty. “If we can have boots on the ground after the war, then why not do it now?” Johnson asserted, emphasising the need for proactive measures rather than reactive responses.
Alongside Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, former chief of the armed forces, Johnson reflected on the early days of the Ukraine conflict, which began on 24 February 2022. They lamented the slow reaction from Western allies, admitting that indecisiveness has cost lives. “We’ve always delayed needlessly,” Johnson remarked, highlighting the frustration felt by Ukraine as requests for military support were often met with hesitation.
A Call for Urgency
Johnson’s comments come just days before the fourth anniversary of the war, a stark reminder of the ongoing tragedy. He argued that had the West taken Putin’s aggression more seriously—particularly during the annexation of Crimea in 2014—the current conflict might have been avoided. “The failure to confront Putin was tragic,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that a lack of resolve among Western nations has emboldened the Russian leader.
Sir Tony echoed Johnson’s sentiments, critiquing the “incrementalism” of the allies’ responses, which he described as frustratingly slow. The duo argued that the West must show a united front and demonstrate a commitment to Ukraine’s independence to deter further Russian aggression.
The Government’s Stance
In response to Johnson’s provocative suggestion, Defence Secretary John Healey clarified the current UK government’s position: British troops would only be sent after a peace agreement has been reached between Ukraine and Russia. Healey expressed his desire to be the Defence Secretary who could deploy troops to Ukraine, but he stressed that military aid and sanctions against Russia remain the priority for now.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, noting the unprecedented levels of military assistance provided, including a recent substantial air defence package. However, the spokesperson maintained that sending non-combat troops during ongoing hostilities does not align with current government strategy.
Why it Matters
As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, Johnson’s call for immediate troop deployment reflects a growing frustration with the pace of Western aid. His remarks challenge current military strategies and open the door for new discussions on how to effectively support Ukraine. In a time where every decision carries significant consequences, the debate surrounding military involvement is more critical than ever. Johnson’s push for action may resonate with those advocating for a more decisive stance, but it also raises questions about the potential risks of escalating tensions with Russia. The path forward is fraught with complexity, and the international community must weigh the urgency of support against the dangers of further conflict.
