As the war in Ukraine enters its third year, a significant shift in military strategy is being suggested within NATO. Latvian Foreign Minister Krisjanis Karins, speaking at a recent security conference in Germany, proposed that the UK and other NATO allies should contemplate introducing conscription. Latvia, a NATO member, has recently reinstated mandatory military service, a move seen as a direct response to the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe.
Karins highlighted the impact such a decision could have, particularly in larger countries. “The larger the country, the bigger the difference,” he noted, emphasising the potential for European nations to bolster their defenses against Russia. Latvia’s experience with conscription, which aims to double its armed forces by 2032, serves as a model. Karins clarified that the goal is not to replace professional armies but to augment them with well-equipped, capable, and trained reservists.
In Latvia, the reintroduction of conscription after nearly two decades is seen as a strategic move to reinforce national defence. Major General Andis Dilans, Latvia’s second most senior commander, stressed that conscription is not just about increasing troop numbers but also about fostering a sense of national service and civic duty. This perspective aligns with the broader democratic values the alliance upholds, where the military and public are interconnected, especially in times of crisis or conflict.
During a visit to a training base near Latvia’s border with Belarus, Sky News witnessed the practical aspects of this policy. Conscripts and volunteers with the National Guard underwent rigorous training, embodying the new approach to national defense. The enthusiasm among conscripts, such as 18-year-old Eduard, was evident. Eduard, like others, chose to balance military training with civilian life, a flexibility that the Latvian model allows.
However, the UK’s response to the idea of conscription, as voiced by Defence Secretary Grant Shapps, was cautious. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Shapps emphasized the UK’s reliance on its professional armed forces and indicated that there are currently no plans to introduce conscription. The British approach remains focused on maintaining a highly trained, professional military force, a stance that reflects the differing strategic perspectives within the NATO alliance.
As the war in Ukraine persists, the debate over conscription underscores the varied approaches within NATO regarding defense preparedness and citizen involvement in national security. While countries like Latvia view conscription as a crucial element of their defense strategy, others like the UK maintain a more traditional focus on professional armed forces. As the conflict continues to evolve, NATO allies are increasingly exploring diverse ways to strengthen their defense capabilities, reflecting both their national priorities and the changing nature of global security challenges.
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