Boris Johnson has issued a fierce rebuke of U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed peace deal to end the war between Russia and Ukraine, calling it a dangerous capitulation that could empower Vladimir Putin to wage future invasions.
The former British prime minister, who was instrumental in rallying Western support for Ukraine following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, criticized the plan in a blistering post on social media. Johnson, known for his outspoken backing of Ukrainian sovereignty, did not mince words.
“Putin indiscriminately butchers more Ukrainian civilians, killing and injuring 100 in Kyiv including children. And what is his reward under the latest peace proposals?
“1. The right to keep sovereign Ukrainian territory he has taken by violence and in breach of international law. 2. The right to control Ukraine’s destiny by forbidding NATO membership. 3. The lifting of sanctions against Russia. 4. An economic partnership with America. 5. The chance to rebuild his armed forces for the next attack in a few short years’ time.”
Boris Johnson
Johnson’s reaction reflects growing unease in European capitals over Trump’s apparent willingness to pressure Ukraine into territorial concessions in exchange for peace. Trump, who returned to the White House earlier this year, has expressed frustration with the ongoing conflict and is pushing for a swift resolution.
Deal Gives Ukraine “Nothing,” Boris Johnson Says
“As for Ukraine – what do they get after three years of heroic resistance against a brutal and unprovoked invasion? What is their reward for the appalling sacrifices they have made – for the sake, as they have endlessly been told, of freedom and democracy around the world?
“Apart from the right to share their natural resources with the United States they get nothing. What is there in this deal that can realistically stop a third Russian invasion? Nothing.”
Boris Johnson
The former UK leader insisted that any credible peace deal must include lasting and enforceable security guarantees.
“If we are to prevent more atrocities by Putin then we must have a long-term, credible and above all properly funded security guarantee for Ukraine – a guarantee issued by the UK, the US and all western allies.”
Boris Johnson
The remarks come despite Johnson’s recent efforts to influence the Trump administration’s Ukraine policy behind closed doors. Johnson, who attended Trump’s January inauguration as a guest of honor, has reportedly lobbied American officials for a firmer stance on Russia. However, his influence appears to have waned.
Trump’s plan is seen by critics as heavily tilted toward Russian interests, with reports suggesting it would allow Moscow to retain control over occupied Ukrainian territory and block Ukraine from joining NATO. In exchange, Russia would receive sanction relief and an economic partnership with the United States.
While Trump has expressed irritation over Ukraine’s position, even threatening to abandon negotiations, he also took to his Truth Social platform to condemn recent Russian missile strikes on Kyiv.
“I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying. Let’s get the Peace Deal DONE!”
President Donald Trump
Meanwhile, Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s special envoy, arrived in Moscow on Friday for further discussions with the Kremlin, according to sources close to the negotiations.
The proposed deal has sparked concern not only in Kyiv and London but also across NATO member states who fear that appeasing Russia now may only invite greater instability in the future.
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