Keir Starmer has assured that Members of Parliament will have an opportunity to vote before any troops are deployed to Ukraine in the event of a peace agreement with Russia’s President, Vladimir Putin.
The pledge was made by the Prime Minister in Parliament following a joint declaration signed in Paris by the UK, France, and Ukraine’s wartime leader Volodymr Zelensky, allowing for the presence of troops after a ceasefire. Starmer announced plans for establishing military bases on Ukrainian territory and constructing secure facilities for weapons and military assets to assist Kyiv in its defense.
During today’s PMQs session, Starmer emphasized the necessity of a parliamentary vote prior to any British troop deployment to the region. He outlined that any deployment would be contingent on a legal framework, following a ceasefire, to bolster Ukraine’s defenses, conduct deterrent operations, and establish and safeguard military bases. Starmer confirmed that a formal statement would be presented to the House at the earliest opportunity.
Responding to questions from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch regarding troop numbers for a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, Starmer reiterated that troop deployment would only occur post-ceasefire to support Ukraine’s capabilities, conduct deterrence operations, and establish military bases. The specific troop numbers would be determined based on military planning and shared with Parliament before any deployment.
Starmer reiterated his commitment to parliamentary oversight, stating that a debate and vote in the Commons would be held if a “legal instrument” was necessary for deployment. He highlighted the significance of international solidarity for peace efforts, underscoring the need for Putin to end hostilities to achieve lasting peace. Starmer condemned recent attacks on Ukraine by Russian forces and expressed determination to pursue peace despite ongoing challenges.
