Heroes in Handcuffs

By considering the complex realities faced by our troops, we can ensure they are supported and trusted, without the fear of bureaucratic retribution, as they courageously serve on the frontlines.

As the world watches tensions rise with the possibility of deployment to Ukraine, the Prime Minister’s talk of a "coalition of the willing" leaves many pondering the implications for our troops.

What does this really mean for soldiers who could face not just Russian military might, but the psychological warfare tactics that Putin's forces are known for?

At the heart of these ominous protocols lies the Russian military deception doctrine, maskirovka (Russian: маскировка, lit. 'masking, disguise'), using manipulation and deceit to diminish an adversary's morale and willingness to fight.

This goes beyond facing traditional military threats. Russian strategies, including false flag operations and misinformation, aim to destabilise and disorient troops.

Adding to the complexity is the lack of absolute confidence among our forces that their own government fully supports them. Some who might be "useful idiots" domestically could inadvertently be undermining efforts, further complicating the operational environment.

How can we ask our soldiers to make split-second decisions in battle? The enemy exploits every moment of hesitation, every shred of doubt.

The fear that lawyers unfamiliar with armed conflict might override military judgment further erodes trust. Allies from international coalitions, such as American and French counterparts, who have stood alongside in past conflicts, find it perplexing how our soldiers' autonomy could be compromised by bureaucratic entanglements at home.

The potential outcomes for soldiers have multiplied.

We have already seen the Labour Government’s disdain for veterans writ large in their treament of Operation Banner veterans, putting European laws above protecting those who served.

Beyond the traditional risks of returning home on a bus, stretcher, or in a body bag, the harrowing prospect of returning in handcuffs in real.

Who, in this scenario, holds the key to their freedom?

Under current frameworks, it's possibly the British government, who draft the rules of engagement. Will international lawyers and the likes of the Attorney General, Lord Hemer, prioritise ideological legal frameworks over the necessity of operational decisions.

As labour icon George Bernard Shaw said over a century ago:

“The British soldier can stand up to anything…except the British War Office.”

Today, this sentiment echoes through the corridors of the Ministries of Defence and Justice, where posturing and photo ops mask the reality.

Actions speak louder than words, yet many politicians consider their positions solely on the interests of specific groups, failing to recognise the powerful electoral voice of veterans and their families, primarily from working-class backgrounds.

As tensions mount and deployment looms, soldiers deserve unwavering support.

Politicians must recognise that words are not enough; they must back moments of tension with actions that demonstrate genuine support for the troops.

Understanding the social and economic backgrounds of those who serve and the power of their voices at the ballot box can bring about meaningful change.

The time to align political actions with the needs and realities of those who defend the nation is now.