The UK’s armed forces must be ready in three years to fight a war against an “axis of upheaval” of Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, the new head of the British military, General Sir Roly Walker has warned, according to Sky News.

Walker predicted that Russian ruler Vladimir Putin would emerge from his war in Ukraine dangerous and “wanting retribution” against Kyiv’s allies, including the UK, whether Moscow wins or loses.

“The point here is when you think they (the Russians) are down, they will come roaring back to get their vengeance,” the general stated at an annual army conference.

Walker also warned about the potential of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, Iran’s desire to develop nuclear weapons, and the threat from North Korea. According to the general, all these countries are creating relationships with each other by sharing weapons and technologies. Walker noted that their ties could converge from 2027 to 2028.

Read also:

• Ukrainian forces defend in encirclement as Russia advances in Donetsk Oblast
• China invites Ukraine’s foreign minister for talks on “achieving peace” with Russia
• EU Commission limits participation in Hungarian presidency events after Orbán’s visits to Russia and China
• Russia has become so economically isolated that China could order the end of its war in Ukraine