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 immediately. In an exclusive interview with BBC’s *Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg*, Johnson argued that deploying forces now could potentially shift the dynamics of the war, flipping a “switch” in Russian President Vladimir Putin’s mindset.
A Call for Action
Johnson’s comments come just days ahead of the four-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He contended that if the UK is prepared to send troops for peacekeeping after a ceasefire, there is no reason not to do so now, particularly in safe areas of Ukraine. “If we can have a plan for boots on the ground after the war, then why not do it now?” he questioned.
Joining him in the discussion was Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the former head of the military, who echoed Johnson’s frustrations about the slow pace of Western military support for Ukraine. Both acknowledged that the Allies had often been too hesitant in their response to Ukrainian requests, with decisions taking months when urgency was required.
Lessons from the Past
Reflecting on the origins of the conflict, Johnson lamented that the war could have been avoided had the West taken Putin’s aggressions seriously, particularly following his annexation of Crimea in 2014. He stated, “The failure to confront Putin over Crimea was tragic,” suggesting that Western indecision has emboldened the Russian leader over the years.
The former PM noted that the Allies’ approach has been characterised by “incrementalism,” a strategy he believes has cost lives. “We’ve always delayed needlessly,” he asserted. Johnson and Radakin both argued that a more decisive stance could have altered the course of the conflict from its outset.
The Government’s Position
In response to Johnson’s advocacy for immediate troop deployment, Defence Secretary John Healey reiterated the government’s current stance: British forces would be sent to Ukraine only after a formal peace agreement is reached. In a piece for *The Telegraph*, he expressed his aspiration to be the Defence Secretary who finally deploys troops, marking the end of the war.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence remarked on the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, highlighting the record levels of military aid provided thus far. This includes a recent half-billion-pound air defence package and preparations for potential troop deployments, but without the immediate plan Johnson has suggested.
The Provocation Dilemma
The prospect of sending international troops to Ukraine, even in non-combat roles, raises concerns about potential provocation. Putin previously stated that any foreign troops in Ukraine would be considered “legitimate targets.” This complicates the conversation about military presence in the region, even if the troops are intended for peacekeeping.
Johnson’s remarks highlight a growing frustration among some Western leaders over the current trajectory of the war. He argued that sending troops now would not only demonstrate unwavering support for Ukrainian sovereignty but also signal to Putin that his actions will not go unchallenged.
Why it Matters
As the war in Ukraine continues to escalate, Johnson’s proposal underscores a critical debate within Western governments about the best strategy to support Ukraine. With civilian casualties mounting and the conflict showing no signs of abating, the international community faces a pivotal choice: to continue with hesitant support or to take decisive steps that could ultimately turn the tide in favour of a free and independent Ukraine. Johnson’s call for immediate action reflects a growing urgency that may resonate with other leaders who believe that the time for cautious diplomacy has passed.