In a recent interview, former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson addressed several pressing issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the need for increased defense spending. Johnson, who has been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine since Russia’s invasion, expressed his deep concern over the continuation of the war and the suffering it has inflicted on the Ukrainian people. He emphasized the importance of solidarity among Western allies in supporting Ukraine, both economically and militarily. Johnson also addressed controversial remarks made by former U.S. President Donald Trump about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, calling them “ghastly to hear” and likening them to “complete untruths.” Despite these troubling comments, Johnson remains optimistic about Ukraine’s chances of success and believes that both the U.S. and the U.K. will continue to play crucial roles in supporting the country’s defense and reconstruction efforts.
One of the key points Johnson highlighted was the need for increased defense spending in the U.K. He called on current Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to raise the country’s defense budget to 3% of national income by 2030, if not sooner. Johnson argued that this increase is necessary to demonstrate the U.K.’s credibility on defense issues, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He also suggested that Sir Keir should use an upcoming meeting with Trump in Washington to propose the creation of an “Anglo-French” deterrent force. This force, which could include up to 30,000 troops from across Europe, would provide security reassurance to Ukraine and help bolster its defenses against Russian aggression. Johnson described this initiative as the “steel-quilled porcupine of future Ukrainian security,” emphasizing its symbolic and practical importance in deterring further Russian advances.
Johnson’s proposal for an Anglo-French force reflects his broader vision of European strength and unity in the face of Russian hostility. He made it clear that the force would not be focused on engaging in active combat but would instead provide logistical support, training, and other forms of assistance to Ukraine. This approach, he argued, would be a powerful demonstration of Western solidarity and would sends a clear message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that Ukraine is not isolated and that its allies are committed to its long-term security. Johnson also noted that Putin’s primary goal is to prevent Ukraine from achieving greater integration with Western institutions, such as NATO, and to block the presence of British or other Western troops on Ukrainian soil. However, Johnson expressed confidence that Trump, despite his criticisms of Zelenskyy, would not want to see Putin emerge victorious in the conflict.
In addition to his defense proposals, Johnson touched on the economic dimensions of the conflict. He referenced a potential economic partnership between the U.S. and Ukraine, which would grant the U.S. access to Ukraine’s significant mineral resources in exchange for security guarantees. Johnson pointed to draft texts of the agreement, which include commitments to a “free, sovereign, secure Ukraine” and long-term financial support for its future security. While he acknowledged that the initial document may not include all the security assurances Ukraine is seeking, he expressed hope that the partnership would lay the groundwork for further cooperation. Johnson also called on the U.K. and other European allies to step up their contributions to Ukraine’s defense, arguing that this would demonstrate their commitment to sharing the burden and align with Trump’s expectations for greater European responsibility.
Despite his optimism about Ukraine’s future, Johnson did not shy away from criticizing Trump’s recent verbal attacks on Zelenskyy. He described Trump’s remarks, which included labeling Zelenskyy a “dictator without elections,” as “ghastly” and “untruths.” Johnson made it clear that such rhetoric undermines the West’s unity and could embolden Putin by creating divisions among Ukraine’s allies. However, he stopped short of suggesting that Trump’s comments reflect a broader shift in U.S. policy, expressing his belief that Trump ultimately wants to see Ukraine succeed and resist Russian control. Johnson’s comments reflect his nuanced view of Trump, whom he views as a complex figure whose words and actions must be carefully balanced in the context of the broader strategic relationship between the U.S. and Ukraine.
Looking ahead, Johnson emphasized the importance of clear and decisive leadership from Western leaders. He urged Sir Keir Starmer to use his visit to Washington tooutline a clear plan for increasing the U.K.’s defense spending and to make progress on the proposed Anglo-French deterrent force. Johnson also called on European allies to demonstrate their commitment to Ukraine’s security through concrete actions, such as troop contributions and financial support. By taking these steps, Johnson argued, the West can send a powerful message to Putin that Ukraine will not be left vulnerable and that its future as a free and sovereign nation is secure. Ultimately, Johnson’s comments reflect his unwavering belief in the importance of unity and resolve in the face of Russian aggression, as well as his confidence in the ability of Western leaders to rise to the challenges of this critical moment in history.
