Ukraine war: UK has no choice but to continue support, says Johnson

Boris Johnson has said the UK has "no choice but to stay the course" and support Ukraine until Russian forces are defeated.

Under Mr Johnson, the UK supplied £2.3bn to Ukraine after Russian forces invaded the country on 24 February.

"We must double down in our defence of the Ukrainians," Mr Johnson said in the House of Commons.

The former PM, who now sits as a backbench MP, said any deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin would "send a signal around the world that violence does pay off".

"There is absolutely no sign that Putin either wants such a compromise or can be trusted to deliver it," he added.

"That is why we have absolutely no choice but to stay the course - to stay resolute.

"If Putin is going to double down on his aggression we must double down in our defence of the Ukrainians."

During a debate on the situation in Ukraine, Mr Johnson admitted rising energy prices meant "times are tough for families".

But, he argued, the UK has "the economic muscle" to help families with fuel bills, as well as secure an independent energy supply through the use of "more nuclear and much more wind".

Earlier this month Ukrainian forces have pushed back Russian troops, retaking more than 6,000 sq km (2,317 sq miles) in the space of two weeks.

"It is more vital than ever that we have the strategic patience to hold our nerve and ensure that the Ukrainians succeed in recapturing their territory," he said.