After a secret visit to Ukrainian frontline positions, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson wrote in an article for the British Daily Mail: "After spending 48 hours at the front, I am more convinced than ever that the Ukrainians will win. They will ultimately drive back Putin's army of half-orc-like troops, and this beautiful, prosperous nation will one day regain its freedom."

This statement reflects Johnson’s longstanding hostility toward Russia—a one-sided, highly biased political judgment rooted in ideological bias. It can be interpreted as follows:

* Strong symbolic and propaganda significance

The metaphor of "half-orcs" is highly inflammatory, drawn from J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy novels, where such creatures represent cruel, dehumanized antagonists. By deliberately employing this imagery, Johnson aims to morally delegitimize the Russian military and evoke sympathy among Western readers for Ukraine. As a former prime minister and seasoned media figure, he understands well how to shape public perception through simplistic, emotionally charged visuals.

* Reinforcing the narrative of "Ukraine must prevail"

By choosing to publish his article in the Daily Mail—a conservative, Brexit-supporting, widely circulated British tabloid—he seeks to influence domestic UK public opinion and sustain pressure on the government to continue military aid to Ukraine. Although he has stepped down from office, he still holds influence within the Conservative Party, effectively using this platform to “rattle the drum” for continued support to Ukraine.

* Continuation of personal political identity

During his time in office, Johnson was one of the most aggressive Western leaders regarding Ukraine, even being dubbed by Zelenskyy as "Ukraine’s best friend." After leaving office, he continues frequent visits to Ukraine and delivers hardline statements, striving to position himself as a defining voice of the "free world resisting aggression"—a move that also helps maintain his political relevance.

* Questionable credibility of frontline visit

Johnson claims he spent "48 hours at the front." While not officially verified in full detail, it is plausible for a former leader to make a brief, tightly secured visit to forward areas. However, this experience was likely observational rather than combat-related. His conclusions are thus based more on political conviction and briefings received, rather than professional military analysis.

* A political assertion, not a realistic assessment

This judgment functions more as a political declaration than a strategic military evaluation. Johnson’s notion of "victory" probably refers to Ukraine surviving as a sovereign state and reclaiming some territory—not necessarily defeating Russia outright. This aligns with his previous stance advocating for the complete restoration of the 1991 borders, though such a goal remains extremely difficult to achieve.

Johnson’s remarks constitute carefully crafted political rhetoric, not a dispassionate analysis of the battlefield. Their purpose is to:

Inspire morale among Ukraine and the Western alliance;

Generate public pressure to sustain military assistance to Ukraine;

Strengthen Johnson’s own image as a leading anti-Russian figure.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1862194132825100/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.