Labour leader Keir Starmer has announced that a parliamentary vote will be required before any deployment of troops to Ukraine if a peace agreement is reached with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This assurance was given following the signing of a joint declaration in Paris by the UK, France, and Ukrainian leader Volodymr Zelensky, allowing for the presence of military personnel post-ceasefire.
During today’s Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Starmer emphasized that any potential British troop movement to the region would be subject to parliamentary approval. He outlined that deployment, if deemed necessary, would be contingent on a legal framework and would focus on enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities, conducting deterrent actions, and establishing secure military facilities.
In response to Conservative Party representative Kemi Badenoch’s inquiry about troop numbers for a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, Starmer reiterated that deployment would only occur after a ceasefire, with the exact figures to be determined based on military planning and support from other allies.
Starmer stressed the importance of ongoing efforts towards securing a lasting peace, highlighting the need for Putin to demonstrate a genuine commitment to ending hostilities. Despite progress made towards a resolution, he cautioned that challenges remain, particularly in light of recent attacks on Ukraine by Russian forces. Starmer reaffirmed the readiness to engage in parliamentary debate and voting procedures if a legal mandate is required for any military action.