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[INTERNATIONAL] · United Kingdom · 6 sources

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British Army Chief calls for public dialogue on war preparedness

General Sir Roly Walker, head of the British Army, has called for political leaders to begin a frank dialogue with the public regarding the sacrifices required to prepare the United Kingdom for potential conflict. Speaking to approximately 700 soldiers at Catterick Garrison, Walker warned that the current international landscape is 'very dangerous' and that the nation may soon require the service of its citizens to defend the country.

Defense expert Hamish Mundell has criticized the UK's current readiness, noting a structural imbalance between expensive permanent forces and the necessary volume of reserves required for a prolonged conflict. Mundell suggested that while European neighbors like Germany and Poland are rapidly rearming, the UK faces challenges in balancing defense spending with social welfare commitments.

In response to these warnings, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch stated that 'war could be coming,' citing recent hybrid warfare threats and urging the country to prioritize readiness over reliance on social benefits.

Entities

British Army · Catterick Garrison · Hamish Mundell · Kemi Badenoch · Roly Walker

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