Inside the Controversial Discussions of a COVID-19 Vaccine Heist
In a startling revelation from his forthcoming memoir, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson disclosed that he contemplated authorizing a dramatic raid on a warehouse in the Netherlands during the pandemic to secure COVID-19 vaccines. The plan, which he himself deemed “nuts,” highlights the desperation of the UK’s vaccine rollout amidst tensions with the EU.
In March 2021, Johnson convened with senior military officials to discuss the feasibility of the raid as AstraZeneca struggled to export crucial vaccine doses from Holland. The memoir details a moment when he commissioned work to explore whether an “aquatic raid” on a facility in Leiden could be executed. With rigid inflatable boats navigating Dutch canals, the military assured Johnson that the plan was “certainly feasible.” However, they cautioned that such an action would raise significant diplomatic concerns, questioning how the UK would justify “invading a long-standing NATO ally.”
Johnson expressed his frustration, believing that the EU was treating the UK “with malice and spite” during a time when the country was in dire need of the five million doses in question. The former Prime Minister noted that while AstraZeneca was facing export challenges, the EU showed little urgency in utilizing the doses themselves.
In another revealing excerpt, Johnson recounted his awkward attempt to persuade Prince Harry to remain in the UK following the royal’s announcement to step back from royal duties. This discussion took place in January 2020, shortly after Harry and Meghan Markle revealed their intentions. Johnson described the scenario as a “ridiculous business,” characterizing it as a “manly pep talk” that was ultimately “totally hopeless.” Their brief meeting occurred on the sidelines of a UK-Africa investment summit, adding an unexpected twist to the political landscape of the time.
These insights from Johnson’s memoir not only shed light on the high-stakes decisions made during the pandemic but also reflect the strained relationships between the UK and its European counterparts. As the UK navigated the complexities of vaccine distribution, Johnson’s anecdotes illustrate the unprecedented challenges faced by leaders in times of crisis.
The release of these extracts by the Daily Mail sets the stage for a memoir that promises to unveil more about the decisions that shaped the UK’s response to the pandemic, as well as the personal dynamics within the royal family.
In the coming weeks, readers can expect a deep dive into Johnson’s time in office, with these revelations poised to spark discussion and debate about leadership during one of the most challenging periods in modern history.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights as Boris Johnson’s memoir is released.