Britons have been cautioned that they could face conscription if war were to break out with Russia. Mike Martin, a former Afghanistan veteran and Liberal Democrat MP for Tunbridge Wells, issued this warning as the conflict in Ukraine continues with no immediate resolution in sight. Speaking to the Express, he stated: "There is a substantial possibility that war with Russia could occur, so we must be prepared."

He further added, "If we find ourselves engaged in a full-scale conflict with Russia, conscription will undoubtedly be necessary. There is no doubt about that." The Liberal Democrat emphasized the importance of readiness, explaining that strengthening military forces serves as a deterrent, ultimately reducing the probability of war. "The key reason for bolstering our armed forces is to lower the likelihood of such a scenario unfolding. That is a crucial point to understand. I have firsthand experience in war, but I am not someone who seeks conflict. However, I firmly believe that maintaining peace requires strength."

Despite the concern, Mr. Martin, who completed multiple tours in Helmand Province, suggested that the UK might still evade a full-scale war with Russia. He elaborated: "It is quite improbable that we would reach the stage of an all-encompassing war. There is still an opportunity to rapidly expand our military without reaching that extreme."

Currently, the UK armed forces consist of approximately 138,000 personnel, with around 75,000 serving in the British Army. Former British Army officer and Conservative MP for Bournemouth East, Tobias Ellwood, has urged the government to reinstate mandatory national service to reinforce the country's military capabilities. He told the Express: "Of course, we must strengthen our land, air, and naval forces, but Britain must also ensure resilience and readiness to deter any threats."

Concerns about Europe's defence have been mounting, particularly as the United States appears to be shifting its focus towards negotiating favorable terms with Russia in a potential Ukraine peace deal. Under Donald Trump’s leadership, the US has expressed reluctance to prioritize the European conflict, opting instead to concentrate on challenges in the Pacific. In response, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has committed to increasing defense spending, amid uncertainty over whether the US would provide support to European allies should Russia escalate its aggression.

On Saturday, Mr. Starmer stated: "We cannot allow President Putin to manipulate President Trump’s proposed deal. The Kremlin’s outright dismissal of Trump’s ceasefire initiative only underscores that Putin is not genuinely interested in peace."

He continued, "If Russia eventually engages in negotiations, we must be prepared to oversee a ceasefire to ensure it is both legitimate and lasting. However, if they refuse, then we must exert every effort to escalate economic pressure on Russia to bring an end to this war."