Defence or lack of it.

[HappydaysArehere]

Not a lot seems to be talked about this. With Putin showing his muscles and other world situations we have to face the fact that reducing our forces to the bone is playing with fire. The first duty of any government is to protect its people. This importance seems to be overwhelmed by other considerations at the present time. What do you think. I am worried.

I don't think it is a serious threat. He's a bit of a bully boy and I think the EU/US are now starting to realise that a bit too late.

Russia has on paper a huge army but in reality it's not very effective. Rumour has it they've stretched themselves to the limits to send troops into Ukraine.

Modern armies are totally dependent not on their number of troops/tanks but by their logistics & supply chain. That's why the US army is so powerful. They can project power anywhere in the world and keep that army supplied with equipment/oil etc.

I dont think a military confrontation is likely but what we will probably see is Putin under increasing pressure as sanctions continue to bite and their economy bumps along the bottom. As a result he may do something unpredictable but I don't think he's foolish enough to attack a NATO member.

That is really interesting and I do hope you are correct. I am old enough to remember the air raid shelters etc and defence is a big issue as far as I am concerned. Thank you for your answer.