Keir Starmer has assured that Members of Parliament will have a say through a vote before any potential deployment of troops to Ukraine in the event of a peace agreement with Russia’s President, Vladimir Putin.
The 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 presence of troops post-ceasefire. Starmer disclosed plans for the UK and France to establish military bases on Ukrainian territory and construct secure facilities for weapons and military gear to aid Kyiv in its defense.
During today’s Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) session, Starmer emphasized the need for a parliamentary vote if British troops were to be deployed to the region. He outlined that any deployment would occur only after a ceasefire to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities, conduct deterrent operations, and establish and safeguard military hubs. Starmer confirmed that a formal statement would be presented to the House at the earliest opportunity.
Responding to a query from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch regarding the number of troops that might be part of a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, Starmer reiterated the conditions for deployment post-ceasefire to support Ukraine’s capabilities and deter aggression. He indicated that the exact troop numbers would align with military strategies being developed, with details to be shared with Parliament prior to any deployment.
Starmer reiterated his commitment to parliamentary oversight, emphasizing that any necessary legal frameworks for deployment would be subject to debate and vote in the Commons. Reflecting on the recent developments in Paris, he underlined the unity of European and American allies in support of peace alongside President Zelensky, stressing that the path to lasting peace requires Putin to end hostilities.
The Prime Minister condemned Putin’s recent actions, highlighting ongoing violence in Ukraine and the urgent need for a genuine commitment to peace. Starmer underscored the importance of maintaining resolve in the face of Russian aggression and reiterated the collective efforts towards a sustainable peace agreement.
