Latvia’s Foreign Minister Krisjanis Karins has suggested the UK should adopt a conscription model to counteract aggression from Russian President Vladimir Putin. This proposal was made as part of a broader recommendation for the UK to implement a “total defence” strategy, which would potentially involve deploying citizens to the front lines in case of a conflict. The suggestion comes in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and aligns with Latvia’s own decision over two years ago to reinstate conscription, following Finland’s lead. Karins, a former Prime Minister of Latvia, argues this approach will enhance the UK’s military readiness against potential threats.

The recommendation for conscription in the UK has generated mixed reactions. Former minister Tobias Ellwood cited Finland’s successful “total defence” model as a potential blueprint for the UK to consider within NATO’s framework. Conversely, former Army head Lord Dannatt expressed skepticism about the necessity of a national service system for the UK, due to its geographical distance from Russia.

In related news, Latvia is pursuing criminal proceedings against European Parliament lawmaker Tatjana Ždanoka, who is suspected of spying for Russia. The investigation, initiated by the Latvian state security service (VDD), follows allegations of Ždanoka’s involvement with the Russian Federal Security Service since 2004. Despite Ždanoka’s denial of the charges, this case has escalated tensions regarding espionage and political influence within the European Union, especially given Latvia and Estonia’s significant Russian-speaking populations and their historical disputes with Moscow. The situation highlights ongoing concerns over foreign influence within EU institutions, with both Latvia and the European Parliament conducting thorough investigations into the matter.