Boris Johnson has expressed disappointment over what he perceives as waning British interest in the war in Ukraine, calling it his “number one” priority. Speaking at an event for Ukrainian veterans held at the country’s embassy in London this week, the former prime minister told The Telegraph: “The interest in Ukraine and the appetite is so low nowadays. I find it quite sad… but it’s number one for me.” Mr Johnson acknowledged the UK still plays a vital role but suggested it may have lost its edge in international leadership on the issue. He noted that current domestic pressures may be distracting the government but described support for Ukraine as a “big opportunity for Britain.”
++ Reeves to present UK as “Beacon of Stability” at G20 summit
While distancing himself from an immediate return to frontline politics, Mr Johnson stated he would continue advocating for Ukraine. The veterans’ event, organised by DTEK, a leading private investor in Ukraine’s energy sector, featured emotional reunions with soldiers – some of whom had suffered torture while in captivity. In a light-hearted moment, Mr Johnson joked about having invited them to his pub in Somerset, which they declined due to the distance, later laughing along with the crowd as he quipped that their cultural programme “is the pub.”
The former prime minister also called on European governments to seize $300bn (£224bn) in frozen Russian assets and allocate the funds to Ukraine as an advance on future reparations. Mr Johnson claimed that former US President Donald Trump supported the idea, although European hesitation remained due to fears over investor confidence. “This is an idea that is attractive to Donald Trump. He would like to do it, but the Europeans need to step up,” he said, urging coordinated international action.
++ Miliband warns of climate crisis amidst growing political division
Turning to domestic matters, Mr Johnson commented on the recent data breach concerning Afghans who assisted British forces, saying it was “absolutely right” to protect those at risk from the Taliban. He denied any prior knowledge of the super-injunction that followed the leak and added: “My first instinct would have been to use the D-notice process, but I don’t know what the legal advice was.” Mr Johnson also weighed in on the Conservative Party’s current challenges, including its electoral strategy and leadership under Kemi Badenoch, urging the party to focus on clear messaging rather than engaging with figures like Nigel Farage.
