Keir Starmer has assured that Members of Parliament will have the opportunity to vote on any potential troop deployment to Ukraine following a peace agreement with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin.
This commitment was made by the Prime Minister during a session in the Commons, following a joint declaration signed in Paris by the UK, France, and Ukraine’s wartime leader, Volodymr Zelensky. The agreement allows for the presence of military personnel on Ukrainian soil after a ceasefire. Starmer announced plans for the establishment of military hubs and secure facilities for weapons and equipment to assist Ukraine in its defense efforts.
During today’s PMQs, Starmer emphasized that any decision to deploy British troops to the region would be subject to a parliamentary vote. He outlined that deployment would only occur post-ceasefire to support Ukraine’s capabilities, conduct deterrent operations, and establish protected military hubs. Starmer also committed to providing a formal statement to the House at the earliest opportunity.
Responding to inquiries from Tory chief Kemi Badenoch regarding troop commitments for a peacekeeping force in Ukraine, Starmer reiterated that troop numbers would be determined in alignment with military plans currently under development. He stressed that any deployment would follow a ceasefire, focusing on supporting Ukraine’s defense, deterrence operations, and hub construction.
Starmer further reiterated his commitment to parliamentary oversight, stating that any deployment decision requiring a “legal instrument” would be subject to debate and vote in the Commons. Reflecting on the recent agreement signed in Paris, Starmer highlighted the unity of European and American allies with President Zelensky in the pursuit of peace, emphasizing the challenges that lie ahead in securing lasting peace given Putin’s actions.
Starmer underscored the importance of advancing peace efforts, cautioning that lasting peace hinges on Putin’s willingness to cease hostilities. He condemned recent attacks on Ukraine by Russian forces, including strikes on civilians and critical infrastructure, emphasizing the need for genuine peace gestures from Putin to move forward constructively.