Britain is facing a new 'world order' shaped by its enemies and regional conflicts, head of Armed Forces warns
Britain is facing a new 'world order' shaped by its enemies and regional conflicts, the head of the Armed Forces has warned.
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Chief of the Defence Staff, said the world was dividing into three groups: Russia, China and its allies who want to undermine global security; responsible nations such as the UK; and states which seek to exploit the chaos for their own advantage.
In a landmark address to the Royal United Services Institute in London, Admiral Sir Tony called on international leaders to 'recognise that one era has ended and another has begun'.
He also warned that collusion between these hostile states could increase, including the possibility that North Korea provides tens of thousands more troops to back the Russian occupation of Ukraine.
He asked: 'Do we understand what is at stake? And are we sufficiently motivated to respond? This year's most extraordinary development was the deployment of thousands of North Korean soldiers on the border of Ukraine.
'And the possibility of tens of thousands more to follow as part of a new security pact with Russia, which could involve the exchange of the most sensitive technology and expertise between Moscow and Pyongyang.
'Add to this the use of Iranian-supplied drones by Russian forces, and Russia's threats to arm the [Yemeni] Houthis in direct retaliation for western support to Ukraine, and we are witnessing the world aligning into three groups.
'Talk of world order may sound abstract... And multi-lateral institutions may feel remote. But they are real.
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Chief of the Defence Staff, pictured right, said Britain is facing a new 'world order' shaped by its enemies and regional conflicts
He also warned that collusion between these hostile states could increase, including the possibility that North Korea provides tens of thousands more troops to back the Russian occupation of Ukraine. Pictured: Korean People's Army (KPA) soldiers march during a mass rally on Kim Il Sung square in Pyongyang on September 9, 2018
Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un pose for a photo during a signing ceremony of the new partnership in Pyongyang
'Their presence, and more so their absence, can be felt in a way that is immediate and visceral.'
Admiral Sir Tony insisted the direct threat to the UK posed by Russia remained 'remote' and was adamant that as long as the West aligns its interests and capabilities, responsible states can thwart the opponents of democracy.
He said: 'If we step back for a moment, we can see our strengths.
'A Europe and America that represents half the world's wealth versus a Russia that is facing economic and demographic decline.
'A Nato that spends more on defence than Russia and China combined and is becoming even stronger.
'An international community that has responded to Russia's aggression with unprecedented cohesion and resolve.'
