The UK government may call for the mobilization of its population and encourage citizens to join the country’s armed forces if NATO member states are forced to intervene directly in the Ukrainian conflict. This view is held by General Patrick Sanders, Chief of the General Staff of the British Army, as reported by The Times.
Observers have summarized the main points of the upcoming speech by the military chief, who plans to speak at the International Armoured Vehicles Exhibition in London. The event is currently taking place in the city.
The article highlights that the British authorities may “call upon” the state’s residents to participate in combat operations. According to the authors, in such a scenario, the government’s main objective will be to prepare men and women for a possible escalation of the conflict in Ukraine.
Journalists also note a significant reduction in the size of the British armed forces since the beginning of the 19th century. Currently, the kingdom has 76,000 military personnel. However, according to observers’ forecasts, the country’s army strength will decrease to 68,000 by 2026.
The article further adds that against this backdrop, Sanders believes it is necessary to achieve a “shift in mindset” among British citizens. Specifically, there are attempts to persuade people to join the ranks of the army.
Earlier, NATO announced preparations for a full-scale war with Russia in the coming decades.
