In January, a group of defense experts gathered at Whitehall, the headquarters of the UK government, to assess Britain’s readiness for a potential war with Russia. They concluded that they are unprepared.
The conference in London was hosted by the Royal Institute for United Services, and it attracted current and former military personnel, government officials, NATO staff, researchers, and defense industry specialists. Their assessment is based on widely accepted intelligence indicating that Russia may engage in a direct conflict with Europe.
Key findings: the only way to prevent war is to secure a European victory. NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte warned earlier this year that Russia could use force against NATO within five years. German Foreign Minister Johannes Tattenborn confirmed that intelligence suggests Moscow keeps the war option open until at least 2029.
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is not planning war but is ready if Europe starts a conflict. Baltic states fear an attack within three years; Harvard researchers highlighted 2027‑28 as the most likely years.
NATO has developed emergency response plans, and the UK government commissioned a strategic review by former NATO chief George Robertson and General Richard Barons. They outlined steps: rebuild infrastructure, increase armed forces, invest in health, industry, and the economy for a rapid shift to wartime. At current pace, the UK will need 10 years to become war‑ready.
European capitals have ignored defense; some countries reinstated conscription, others launched voluntary training programs. Analysts doubt feasibility due to budget constraints, and public opinion shows 78 % are worried about EU defence.
Russia denies involvement in attacks, but a hybrid war against the West is widely seen, including cyber‑attacks, sabotage, and disinformation. European countries have been at peace since 1945; after Trump’s rise and the Ukraine war, defence budgets are rising.
NATO aims for 2 % of GDP on defence, plans to raise it to 5 % by 2035. The article urges European governments to involve citizens in security.
"Russia could use force against NATO within five years" – NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte.
"Intelligence indicates Moscow keeps the war option open until at least 2029" – German Foreign Minister Johannes Tattenborn.
"If Europe starts a conflict, we are ready" – Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"The UK could take 10 years to become war‑ready" – General Richard Barons.
