**Boris Johnson defends Donald Trump over Capitol riots and Ukraine claims**
In a recent interview, Boris Johnson has come to the defence of former US President Donald Trump, asserting that Trump did not have intentions to “overthrow the constitution” during the Capitol riots. Johnson described the events as a “peaceful transfer of democratic power from one administration to another”. Furthermore, Johnson supported Trump’s claim that Russia would not have invaded Ukraine if he had remained in office, deeming it a “credible assertion”.
During the interview with Times Radio, Johnson highlighted Trump’s actions towards Ukraine, including providing military aid, and expelling Russian spies. Johnson expressed his belief that Trump’s assertion about preventing a Russian invasion if he had still been in power is plausible.
Trump has repeatedly asserted his good relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and suggested that Ukraine would not have received defence aid under his presidency to push for a settlement in the ongoing conflict. Additionally, Trump referred to the individuals involved in the Capitol riots as “warriors” and “victims”. Investigations into the January 6 riots have linked Trump as the central instigator of the unrest.
Despite Johnson’s defence of Trump, a previous court ruling found Trump had engaged in inciting violence during the riots with the intent to disrupt the electoral certification process. Johnson’s support for Trump is not new, as he has previously defended him in various controversies.
In the same interview, Johnson downplayed the ‘partygate’ scandal that contributed to his resignation as prime minister, suggesting shared responsibility with former civil servant Sue Gray. Johnson hinted at a potential return to the political forefront, likening politicians to “cockroaches” needing to continuously strive for survival and strive for the betterment of society.
The support shown by Johnson towards Trump’s actions and statements regarding the Capitol riots and Ukraine aligns with his previous stance on defending the former US president.
This article was originally published on [The Independent](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/boris-johnson-donald-trump-capitol-riots-ukraine-b2245418.html).