In a shocking declaration, a NATO military chief has issued a dire warning to the British public, urging them to prepare for a potential all-out war with Russia and be ready to actively participate in the battle.

As concerns of a looming third world war escalate, Admiral Rob Bauer, chair of the NATO military committee, cautioned civilians yesterday about the need to be prepared for a conflict that could profoundly alter their lives. Speaking during a crucial summit among NATO defence chiefs in Brussels, Bauer emphasised the importance of readiness across the spectrum, noting the unpredictable nature of global geopolitics.

“We need to be readier across the whole spectrum. You have to have a system in place to find more people if it comes to war, whether it does or not,” said Bauer. “Then you talk mobilization, reservists or conscription. We have to realise it’s not a given that we are in peace. And that’s why we [NATO forces] are preparing for a conflict with Russia.”

Bauer’s comments precede NATO’s largest War Games exercise since the Cold War’s conclusion. The upcoming operation, named “Steadfast Defender,” is scheduled to commence next week with 90,000 soldiers converging in Eastern Europe to prepare for potential hostilities with Russia. Among them are approximately 20,000 British troops, along with tanks, artillery, fighter jets, and helicopters.

Defense Secretary Grant Shapps recently announced the deployment of all three Armed Forces to the 31-nation drill, emphasising the seriousness of the situation. Bauer commended Sweden for urging its private citizens to brace for war, resulting in a surge in military volunteers. Sweden, a NATO member hopeful, will participate in the war games alongside all 31 member states.

Concerns within NATO revolve around the preparedness of member states on the home front for potential conflict. Europe’s war chest has dwindled in the past two years, while Russia has increased its defence spending by more than a third this year. General Sir Richard Barrons, former Joint Forces chief, emphasised the importance of NATO staying vigilant in preparation for potential conflicts.

Bauer echoed concerns within the NATO military alliance that arms manufacturing in member states is not keeping pace with the current threat. He stressed the need for an industrial base capable of producing weapons and ammunition rapidly to sustain a conflict if it arises.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s recent announcement of £2.5 billion in aid for Ukraine highlights the UK’s commitment to supporting allies in the face of geopolitical tensions. As global flashpoints emerge, the spectre of an all-out world war remains, with concerns focusing on Russia, China, the Middle East, Iran, and North Korea, alongside Putin’s aggression in Ukraine.