UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – British PM Keir Starmer has been warned that Putin could exploit the European Court of Human Rights to target British troops in Ukraine.
As reported by The Telegraph, Labour has been warned that British armed forces deployed to Ukraine for a peacekeeping mission could face battles with human rights laws if any mistakes occur.
Should UK troops be exempt from human rights laws?
Keir Starmer is under pressure to approve a balanced exemption from the European Convention on Human Rights for British troops deployed to Russia.
The move comes amid worries that Moscow could exploit legal loopholes to target soldiers and erode military confidence.
What did James Cartlidge say about UK troops’ protection?
Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge has urged ministers to protect UK troops from human rights claims, warning of legal wars similar to those seen after Iraq.
In a letter to Defence Secretary John Healey, he called for measures to “maximise protection” and suggested reviewing Britain’s stance on the ECHR to prevent legal exploitation in future conflicts.
It stated,
“This has led to uncertainty among military personnel and veterans, who are naturally concerned about vexatious claims being made against them in a potential Ukrainian theatre of war.”
The letter continued,
“To maximise protection for our forces, I would urge you to consider derogating from the ECHR for the duration of Britain’s deployment in Ukraine.”
Mr Cartlidge stated the Defence Secretary “must now make such a consideration if we are to show we’ve got the back of our soldiers, and are truly committed to minimising the risk of lawfare”.
He added,
“In recent weeks, several veterans have expressed to me their concern that the kind of vexatious lawsuits brought against our armed forces on previous deployments might be a risk in Ukraine.”
While referring to the UK’s commitment to Ukraine, Mr Cartlidge warned that although he is “proud of Britain’s continued support for Ukraine,” the proposed peacekeeping force raises “several questions” that need to be resolved.
He questioned the Defence Secretary on whether Britain’s contribution would see the Army, Navy, and RAF deployed as part of the initiative.
In his letter, he asked about the progress made in replenishing military stockpiles, particularly munitions, which have been supplied to Kyiv.
Have UK troops faced unfair legal battles despite new laws?
British forces and veterans who served in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Northern Ireland have faced legal prosecutions in recent years. The former Prime Minister Boris Johnson passed the Overseas Operations Bill in 2021 to protect UK forces from vexatious claims and prevent legal harassment of military personnel.
The original version of the bill included a provision requiring ministers to review ECHR exemptions for combat deployment, but the House of Lords removed the clause before it became law.
What did the Ministry of Defence spokesman say about the UK’s military planning?
A Ministry of Defence spokesman stated,
“The Government is leading detailed military planning, along with allies and partners, to develop the potential for security guarantees for Ukraine.”
They added,
“This work is in the operational phase and will continue next week at PJHQ [Permanent Joint Headquarters]”,
adding,
“As a long-standing practice over many decades, the UK complies fully with UK and international law whenever it conducts military operations at home or abroad.”
How is Keir Starmer leading efforts for a peacekeeping force in Ukraine?
Keir Starmer affirmed his willingness to send both ground forces and air support for a potential peacekeeping initiative.
He has brought together a “coalition of the willing,” consisting of 26 states committed to safeguarding Kyiv in the event of a peace deal.
Labour leader stressed the need for an international military coalition, warning that Putin would break any agreement with Ukraine.
Mr Starmer urged Europe to lead the peace force but insisted on U.S. support as a safety net.
What did a Labour source say about UK troops in Ukraine?
A Labour source stated,
“This government is focused on supporting our Armed Forces, who stand ready to deploy to Ukraine to secure peace and the future of European security, while the Tories are focused on playing politics.”
What has Keir Starmer previously said about UK troops in Ukraine?
Last month, Keir Starmer proposed that British troops might help protect Ukraine in a post-ceasefire scenario.
The Prime Minister stated,
“While European nations must step up in this moment – and we will – US support will remain critical and a US security guarantee is essential for a lasting peace because only the US can deter Putin from attacking again.”