In a bold statement, Boris Johnson has urged the UK and its allies to deploy non-combat troops to Ukraine immediately, arguing that such a move could disrupt Russian President Vladimir Putin’s calculations. Speaking on the BBC’s *Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg*, Johnson, alongside former military chief Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, contended that there is no logical reason to delay sending troops to peaceful areas of Ukraine, especially in light of ongoing discussions about post-war troop deployments.
Urgency for Action
Johnson’s appeal comes just days before the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a conflict he described as potentially preventable had Western powers acted decisively against Putin’s prior aggressions, such as the annexation of Crimea in 2014. He stated, “If we can have a plan for boots on the ground after the war, then why not do it now?” His call for action reflects a growing frustration with what he perceives as a sluggish response from Western allies in providing military support to Ukraine.
The former prime minister’s comments highlight a stark contrast to the current UK government’s approach, which is focused on building a “coalition of the willing” to stabilise Ukraine but is contingent on a ceasefire agreement with Russia. Johnson and Radakin noted that the West has often been hesitant, taking months to approve military assistance that Ukraine urgently requires.
The Cost of Caution
During the interview, both Johnson and Radakin agreed that the West’s incremental support strategy has been detrimental. Radakin described this approach as “incrementalism,” which has left Ukraine feeling unsupported and frustrated. Johnson added, “We’ve always delayed needlessly,” suggesting that such delays have cost lives. He emphasized that it is crucial to demonstrate unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, arguing that the presence of international troops, even in a non-combat role, could serve as a significant deterrent to Putin’s ambitions.
However, this stance raises questions. With Putin viewing foreign troops as a provocation, any troop deployment could escalate tensions further. In previous remarks, Putin has stated that any troops sent to Ukraine would be deemed “legitimate targets.” Thus, the implications of Johnson’s proposal could be profound, potentially altering the dynamics of the conflict and the safety of international forces.
Historical Context and Western Resolve
Reflecting on the historical context, Johnson lamented the missed opportunities to confront Putin’s aggression over the years, particularly highlighting the inaction following the annexation of Crimea and the failure to respond robustly to his actions in Syria. He pointed out that these failures have emboldened Putin, stating, “The failure to do anything in Crimea was tragic.” Johnson’s comments serve as a reminder of the long-standing complexities in Western foreign policy and its impact on current events.
Moreover, Sir Tony urged the government to uphold its commitment to increase defence spending to 3.5% of national income by 2035, a promise made during last year’s NATO summit. He underscored the importance of investing in military capabilities to ensure national security in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.
Why it Matters
As the war in Ukraine continues to reshape the European security landscape, Johnson’s call for immediate troop deployment raises critical questions about the West’s strategic resolve and willingness to take risks. The suggestion of sending troops to Ukraine, even in a non-combat capacity, represents a significant shift in the current narrative surrounding Western support. It underscores the urgency for decisive action in the face of ongoing aggression and reflects a broader concern about the consequences of prolonged inaction. The implications of this discourse will resonate far beyond the conflict, influencing geopolitical relationships and the future of international military engagements.
