Boris Johnson has warned that the UK may need to send troops to Ukraine if Donald Trump cuts funding to the country after assuming the presidency.

In an interview with GB News, the former British prime minister stated that if Russia gains an advantage in the conflict, the UK may be forced to take stronger action to defend Kyiv.

He expressed concerns that Trump is influenced by pro-Putin voices within the Republican Party who hold “absurd” views on the war.

Johnson explained that the billions spent by the US and its allies in supporting Ukraine are an investment against potential Russian and Chinese expansionism, which could ultimately prevent the need for British ground troops.

He highlighted the strategic importance of Ukraine, stating that a defeat for the country could lead to greater threats to European security, with repercussions extending to regions like the Baltic states, Georgia, and even the Pacific.

He urged viewers to understand that supporting Ukraine is essential for maintaining collective security, as a resurgent Russia would pose a threat to Europe, and the UK would eventually have to send troops to defend Ukraine.

Johnson also criticized parts of the Republican Party that appear to be sympathetic to Vladimir Putin, describing their admiration for the Russian leader as “creepy” and misguided.

However, he acknowledged that Trump had made a significant contribution to Ukraine’s defense by authorizing the supply of Javelin anti-tank weapons, which could have altered the course of the conflict had he not done so.

On the issue of immigration, Johnson agreed with Trump’s plan to deport illegal immigrants, drawing parallels with his own experience in launching the UK’s Rwanda scheme. He emphasized the need to ensure the legal foundation is in place for such initiatives to succeed.

Johnson noted that while human rights must be protected, sometimes legal protections can be excessive and hinder the government’s ability to fulfill its commitments.