Soldiers should talk to their families about a potential deployment, according to Warrant Officer Paul Carney
According to the senior ‘other ranks’ soldier in the UK, British soldiers must be prepared to battle Russia and should get their families ready for the possibility of a “long” deployment. His counsel follows that of the UK’s newly appointed chief of general staff, who stated that British forces must be able to “destroy Russia in war.”
Carney stated that “the Army is configuring itself to confront the threat from Russia” and “will be ready, with the correct equipment, to play our part in deterring a future war in Europe” in an article for the most recent issue of the British Army’s “Soldier” magazine.
“Deterring” in this case seemingly means deploying. “I want us all to check we are physically fit for operations. And it is also important we prepare loved ones and families, who often have the hardest role in our absence,” he continued.
“My ask is that you have discussions about a potential deployment with them now…we could be out of contact for extended periods on tour.”
Carney’s caution does not indicate that the UK’s involvement in the situation in Ukraine will soon change. However, a warning issued in June by General Patrick Sanders, the new head of the British General Staff, implies that the Army sees Russia as its next significant adversary.
In a message to his subordinates, Sanders stated that “there is now a burning necessity to construct an Army capable of fighting alongside our friends and defeating Russia in battle.” We are the generation that needs to get the Army ready for another battle in Europe.
Since Russia’s military intervention began in February, the UK has provided Ukraine with military assistance totaling £2.3 billion ($2.7 billion). Currently, British soldiers are educating Ukrainian recruits in the UK, and it has been reported that British intelligence services are exchanging information with Ukrainian colleagues.
Since the UK is a NATO member, all 29 of the alliance’s other members, including the US, would be compelled to join the fighting if it engaged in open warfare with Russia.
