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Starmer Leaves Door Open for Parliamentary Vote on Troop Deployment in Ukraine
Keir Starmer has indicated that he may consider a parliamentary vote regarding the potential deployment of UK troops for a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine following the establishment of any ceasefire. This comes amidst increasing pressure from certain factions within the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats.
During discussions on Monday, Downing Street suggested that a guarantee, supported by the United States, would be essential for the UK to send ground forces, characterizing such a pact as “critical” to any ceasefire arrangements with Russia.
In a significant statement made on Sunday evening, Starmer acknowledged that he was prepared to risk British troops “in harm’s way” to uphold a peace agreement aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict instigated by Russia.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to engage with European leaders in urgent talks in Paris on Monday, focusing on a unified response to Donald Trump’s recent overtures for a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin, while also addressing concerns regarding potential reductions in US defense commitments across Europe.
Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, expressed support for the UK’s involvement in peacekeeping operations, asserting that any military engagement should involve parliamentary consultation. “The Prime Minister is absolutely right when it comes to the deployment of British troops in Ukraine to uphold any peace deal and deter Putin,” Davey stated. He further emphasized the UK’s role in leading in Europe to ensure that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is not coerced into a settlement that favors Russia.
A spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats reiterated the party’s stance, advocating for parliamentary debate prior to any troop deployment.
Conversely, Labour MP Diane Abbott voiced her apprehensions about employing British forces for peacekeeping, arguing that a sustainable peace would eliminate the need for military personnel on the ground. She cautioned against the risks involved, suggesting that the matter should require parliamentary approval before proceeding.
Within the Conservative Party, there are no immediate plans to pursue a parliamentary vote regarding troop deployment. Kemi Badenoch, the party leader, omitted any reference to Ukraine in her conference address focused on threats to Western civilization.
Downing Street has not confirmed whether there would be a vote in Parliament on troop deployment, indicating that it is premature to make such commitments. Starmer has previously advocated for legislation mandating parliamentary consent for military action during his time in opposition.
Starmer’s spokesperson clarified that there has been no alteration to this standpoint, indicating that discussions about a parliamentary vote are speculative at this stage. “There has historically been cross-party consensus on supporting Ukraine since the conflict began, and we will continue to keep Parliament informed and involved as necessary,” he stated.
Additionally, Downing Street announced that Starmer would meet with Trump in Washington next week to strengthen bilateral relations regarding trade, investment, and security.
In a related development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is leading a delegation to Saudi Arabia for dialogues with Russian officials concerning a possible ceasefire framework. Ukraine has not been included in these talks, and President Zelenskyy has declared that Kyiv will not endorse any outcomes from these discussions without its participation.
Before heading to the Paris summit, Starmer emphasized that the UK is confronting “a generational challenge in terms of national security.” He underscored the necessity for “realistic and credible solutions” that ensure the longevity of any peace settlement, calling for increased commitment from the UK and its European allies in terms of defense capabilities, funding, and training to uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty and stability within the context of a peace agreement.
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www.theguardian.com