The Chairman of NATO's Military Committee, issued a stark warning to civilians and governments alike, urging them to brace for a potential conflict with Russia within the next 20 years.
While armed forces within the NATO alliance are on high alert and well-prepared for the outbreak of war, Admiral Rob Bauer emphasized the critical need for private citizens to ready themselves for a conflict that could necessitate significant lifestyle changes, as per The Telegraph.
Admiral Bauer, speaking after a meeting of NATO defense chiefs in Brussels, stressed the importance of mobilizing large numbers of civilians in the event of a global war. He called on governments to establish systems to manage the mobilization process effectively.
"We have to realize it's not a given that we are in peace. That's why NATO forces have plans, and that's why we are preparing for a conflict with Russia," stated Admiral Bauer during the press briefing.
He further highlighted the broader scope of the discussion, emphasizing the pivotal role of both the industrial base and the general populace. "It is also the industrial base and also the people that have to understand they play a role," added Admiral Bauer.
In preparation for potential hostilities, Admiral Bauer urged both public and private entities to shift their mindset from an era of predictability and control to an era where unforeseen events can occur at any time. He emphasized the necessity of expecting the unexpected and having an industrial base capable of rapidly producing weapons and ammunition.
Commending Sweden for its proactive approach in urging citizens to prepare for war, Admiral Bauer acknowledged the surge in volunteers for Sweden's civil defense organization.
The warning comes as NATO announces its intention to mobilize 90,000 troops in the largest military exercise since the Cold War. Dubbed 'Steadfast Defender,' the war games aim to deter any aggression from Russia and demonstrate the alliance's commitment to defending all member nations, according to Daily Mail.
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NATO's Massive Exercise
The exercise, set to begin next week and run until late May, involves units from all 31 NATO member countries and candidate-member Sweden. UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps announced the deployment of 20,000 troops, along with the Royal Navy's aircraft carriers, warships, and the RAF's F-35 Lightning attack aircraft.
Germany is set to contribute 12,000 soldiers, 3,000 vehicles, and 30 aircraft to simulate a Russian attack scenario triggering Article 5, which mandates collective defense in case of an attack on any NATO member.
Amid the escalating tensions, Admiral Bauer reiterated NATO's long-term support for Ukraine, asserting that the conflict's outcome would shape the world's destiny. He stated that Russia's fear of democracy was at the core of the conflict, emphasizing NATO's commitment to defending democratic values.
With increasing tensions globally, including Pakistan's airstrikes in Iran and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, the global community prepares for a potentially turbulent period in the near future. The recent disclosure of classified German Ministry of Defence documents detailing a comprehensive plan for a potential escalation of conflict with Russia serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness of the situation.
In the face of these developments, NATO's 'Steadfast Defender 2024' is not only a military exercise but a clear demonstration of unity, strength, and determination to protect the alliance's values and the rules-based international order, according to US Army General Christopher Cavoli, NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe, Newsweek reported.
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