Keir Starmer has assured that Members of Parliament will have a say through a vote before any potential deployment of troops to Ukraine if a peace agreement is reached with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin.
This commitment was made by the Prime Minister in the House of Commons following a joint declaration signed in Paris by the UK, France, and Ukrainian leader Volodymr Zelensky, allowing for the possibility of troops on the ground post-ceasefire. Starmer disclosed plans for Britain and France to establish military hubs in Ukraine and set up secure facilities for weapons and military gear to assist Kyiv in its defense efforts.
During today’s Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Starmer emphasized that any decision to send British troops to the region would be subject to a parliamentary vote. He outlined that deployment would only occur after a ceasefire to bolster Ukraine’s capabilities, carry out deterrent operations, and establish and safeguard military hubs. Starmer assured that a formal statement would be presented to the House at the earliest opportunity.
Responding to inquiries from Tory leader Kemi Badenoch about troop commitments for a peacekeeping force in Ukraine, Starmer reiterated the necessity for a ceasefire before any deployment. He stressed that troop numbers would align with military strategies being developed and would be shared with Parliament before any actual deployment occurs.
Starmer underscored the importance of international cooperation for peace efforts, highlighting the need for Putin to step away from aggressive actions. He condemned recent attacks on Ukraine by Russian forces, emphasizing the urgency for genuine peace initiatives. Starmer acknowledged the progress made towards a lasting peace but cautioned that significant challenges remain ahead in achieving a sustainable agreement.