It looks unlikely at the moment that Keir Starmer’s proposal to put British troops into Ukraine to facilitate a Trump/Putin peace deal. However, it is still a possibility.
The other day I threw in the question about whether or not it would be right to refuse to serve in such a context.
It is worth noting that there has been strong disagreement among Christians generally about serving in the military. Some believers have willingly served in the armed forces. However, there is a long tradition of conscientious objection and pacifism too.
Now conscientious objection is normally in the context of conscription. Service men and women who joined up voluntarily have already agreed with the principle of war where necessary. However, does that mean they are committed to any conflict? I think there may be situations where they conclude it would be wrong. However, they will also need to accept the consequences of their decision
So what about this possible scenario. I think it is clear from my previous posts that I believe that Trumps’ proposals go against what God says. Obadiah 10-14 has string words to say about those who stand aloof and move to take advantage themselves. Perhaps some readers still think he is genuinely seeking to get a quick peace deal but that will need a lot more evidence to convince me.
So, there is a strong argument that serving in Ukraine would be in support of such an agenda and so wrong.
However, I think things are more complex than that. I think that Keir Starmer risks drawing the UK into a dangerous situation and becoming complicit with Trump and Putin. However whilst there may be mixed motives with a desire to play the statesman and a lot of naivety, there may be a genuine desire to do as much as possible to bring peace even if it will be a long way short of ideal.
A lot depends on whether time is given for a full and proper debate in parliament, whether the serious issues are raised with the Prime Minister and whether he responds humbly, listening, engaging, making a case or arrogantly and dismissively.
On the balance of probabilities, therefore I think that Christians will be legitimately able to serve in such a context. However, I don’t think it is clear cut.
Faithroots 