Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister, has called for the UK to send non-combat troops to Ukraine immediately. In an interview on BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, he argued that deploying forces now could change the strategic calculus for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Johnson’s comments come as the conflict nears its fourth anniversary.
A Call for Immediate Action
Johnson, alongside former military chief Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, proposed that British and allied forces should be stationed in peaceful areas of Ukraine, taking on non-combat roles. He questioned the logic behind planning for a post-war presence while delaying action during ongoing hostilities. “If we can have a plan for boots on the ground after the war, then why not do it now?” he asked, stressing the urgent need for Western resolve.
The UK government is currently strategising with allies on a “coalition of the willing” to aid Ukraine, but this is contingent on achieving a ceasefire. Johnson lamented that more decisive action could have potentially averted the war, suggesting that Western leaders overlooked Putin’s aggressive manoeuvres, particularly following Crimea’s annexation in 2014.
Criticism of Western Hesitation
Reflecting on the early days of the invasion on 24 February 2022, Johnson and Sir Tony noted that the West’s response had often been too slow. They expressed frustration at the incremental nature of military support, which they believe has cost lives. Sir Tony described the allies’ method as “incrementalism,” emphasising that Ukraine has felt the consequences of such caution.
Johnson asserted that the delays in providing military aid have been detrimental to Ukraine’s efforts. Even as the UK has supplied significant resources, he argued that the hesitance to act decisively has played into Putin’s hands. “We’ve always delayed needlessly,” he stated, underscoring that a firm commitment from the West is critical for Ukraine’s future.
The Broader Implications
Johnson’s comments echo a growing sentiment that mere military support is insufficient without a clear strategy to bring about peace. He described the current situation as one where Putin remains unconvinced of the West’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty. The former Prime Minister expressed regret over past missed opportunities to confront Putin’s aggression, asserting that clarity in Western policy could have changed the trajectory of the conflict.
Admiral Sir Tony also called on the government to meet its defence spending commitments made at the recent NATO summit, highlighting the need for a robust military posture in light of ongoing threats.
Why it Matters
As the war in Ukraine continues to escalate, Johnson’s call for non-combat troops signals a pivotal moment in the West’s approach to the conflict. His insistence on immediate deployment reflects a frustration with the status quo and highlights the urgency of demonstrating unwavering support for Ukraine. The implications of such a shift could redefine international relations in the region, challenging the perceptions of both allies and adversaries. As the stakes grow ever higher, the question remains: how far is the West willing to go to ensure Ukraine’s independence and stability?
