Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged the UK to deploy non-combat troops to Ukraine immediately. He stressed that Non-combat troops could strengthen support without engaging in fighting. Johnson delivered his message during an interview with the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg alongside Admiral Sir Tony Radakin.
Johnson criticized the West for delaying support to Ukraine. He warned that Russia’s full-scale invasion could have been avoided if allies had responded sooner. Specifically, he pointed to the Kremlin’s 2014 annexation of Crimea as a warning that the West ignored.
He argued that if the UK can send troops after a ceasefire, it should deploy them now. Non-combat troops could assist Ukraine while leaving the initiative with Kyiv, rather than giving control to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Johnson called Western assistance overly cautious and incremental. Radakin agreed, labeling the approach “incrementalism” and noting Ukraine’s frustration at delays in receiving vital supplies. Johnson added that providing Ukraine’s requests earlier would have pressured Putin effectively.
The UK Ministry of Defence highlighted Britain’s leadership in supporting Ukraine. Officials detailed the country’s highest-ever military aid, including a recent half-billion-pound air defence package. The ministry also noted accelerated UK military funding and coordination with over 30 nations through the Coalition of the Willing.
Johnson criticized the West’s failures in other conflicts. He cited Syria, where the lack of consequences for chemical weapons use emboldened aggressors. Likewise, he said inaction during Crimea encouraged Putin’s aggression. “The failure to act was tragic,” he said.
He stressed that Non-combat troops could help Ukraine immediately without escalating the conflict. Johnson insisted that decisive action from Western allies could have prevented the invasion. Radakin urged the UK to meet its commitment to spend 3.5% of national income on defense by 2035.
Johnson and Radakin emphasized the urgency of stronger, faster support for Ukraine. They warned that delays and half-measures could give Russia the advantage. Deploying non-combat troops now would reinforce Ukraine’s sovereignty while avoiding direct combat.
In conclusion, Johnson called for immediate action. Non-combat troops represent a practical solution to assist Ukraine today while preparing for a stable post-conflict future.
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