Latvia is bringing back conscription to better prepare for a potential Russian invasion. The country can’t rely on the response time of NATO forces, so it needs to have a trained civilian force that can be called immediately in case of an attack. Young men will serve a term regardless of whether a war is going on. This is just one measure Latvia is taking to strengthen its military capabilities in light of increasing tensions with Russia.
Latvia’s Defence Minister Artis Pabriks is Preparing for War
Latvia’s defense minister is pushing for the reinstitution of conscription for his nation to defend itself against a Russian attack. Latvia ended its conscription program in 2007, but now they are bringing it back due to the current geopolitical climate.
Latvia plans to reintroduce military service for young adults aged 18-27 to protect the country from Russia. Defence Minister Artis Pabriks said that this was a necessary step for Latvia to ensure its survival.
We have been calculating how many Russian forces can gather at our borders within 24 or 48 hours. Knowing that NATO will need time to react, we must be ready to defend each of our territories.
Russia’s aggression in Ukraine has made many countries in Eastern Europe nervous, and rightfully so. If Russia is willing to annex Crimea and destabilize Ukraine, who’s to say they wouldn’t do the same to Latvia?
Latvia is a small country with only about two million people. It would be no match for Russia militarily, so it needs to take whatever steps necessary to prepare for the worst-case scenario. That includes beefing up its military capabilities and relying on the protection of NATO forces.
Baltic Countries are at risk of Russian aggression
Latvia’s neighbors Estonia and Lithuania, are also taking similar measures to prepare for a potential Russian invasion. The Baltic states are some of the most vulnerable countries in Europe and are right on Russia’s doorstep. If Russia were to launch an attack on any of these countries, it would be over before NATO could respond.
That’s why the Baltic states are taking matters into their own hands and preparing as best they can for a Russian invasion. It’s better to be safe than sorry; they know they can’t rely on anyone else to protect them from Vladimir Putin’s aggression.
The reintroduction of conscription will require legislation and parliamentary approval. The defense minister is confident that the program will go through smoothly, with a planned start date of January 1, 2023. Volunteers will be part of the initial phase; all males between 18 and 27 will serve for 11 months. Salaries are expected to reach up to 400 euros, inclusive of accommodation and food.
Latvia’s military capabilities are at about 5000 soldiers. With the new draft, they are looking to increase that number to at least 12000. This is a small but necessary step for Latvia to take to defend itself against Russia. The country has been increasing its military spending in recent years, which is just one more way to ensure that it’s prepared for anything.
What do you think about Latvia’s decision to bring back conscription? Do you think it’s a wise move given the current geopolitical climate? Let us know in the comments below.
