Boris Johnson Advocates Immediate Noncombat Troop Deployment to Ukraine
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has suggested that the United Kingdom and its European allies should immediately deploy noncombat troops to Ukraine. This proposal, made ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion, aims to demonstrate Western nations' commitment to Ukraine's independence. Johnson's suggestion represents a potential shift from current plans, which typically involve troop deployment only after a ceasefire agreement.
Proposal Details
Mr. Johnson's proposal calls for the immediate deployment of noncombat troops from the U.K. and its European allies. According to his statements, these forces would operate in peaceful regions within Ukraine and serve in non-fighting roles.
The stated purpose of this deployment, according to Johnson, is to signal Western nations' commitment to Ukraine's freedom and independence, including to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Context and Rationale
The former Prime Minister's comments were made during a BBC interview, ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. During his tenure as prime minister, Mr. Johnson supported Ukraine.
Mr. Johnson's suggestion differs from existing plans by the "coalition of the willing," which envisions troop deployment to Ukraine primarily to police a ceasefire, following an agreement to end hostilities.
"If we are willing to do it in the context of a ceasefire, which of course puts all the initiative, all the power, in Putin’s hands, why not do it now?"
Johnson argued against waiting for a ceasefire, stating there was "no logical reason" against sending peaceful ground forces to demonstrate constitutional support for an independent Ukraine.
Concerns and Russian Stance
Western military planners have generally avoided public discussions regarding such a move. This is primarily due to concerns that Russia might interpret it as an escalation of the conflict.
Russian President Vladimir Putin previously rejected proposals for Western peacekeeping forces in Ukraine in September, stating that any deployed troops would be considered "legitimate targets."
In response to these concerns, Mr. Johnson stated that Mr. Putin should not dictate terms to Ukraine and its allies. He emphasized that the decision should rest with Ukrainians if their country is not a "vassal state" of Russia.
Official UK Response
Britain's Ministry of Defense responded to Mr. Johnson's comments by reaffirming the government's commitment to preparing for troop deployment in coordination with the "coalition of the willing" after a ceasefire. The ministry stated that a multinational force, under UK leadership, would aim to secure long-term peace, with British troops being deployed following the end of hostilities. The current Prime Minister has consistently stated that British troops would be deployed after the cessation of hostilities.
Attribution of Conflict
Mr. Johnson also attributed the 2022 invasion of Ukraine to what he described as Western failures. He cited insufficient support for Ukraine following the 2014 annexation of Crimea, a lack of robust response to the use of chemical weapons in Syria, and the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Johnson suggested these events may have emboldened Mr. Putin.