TheaterFire

top nato official urges civilians as well as governments to prepare for life-changing conflict and potential conscription within next 20 years

Posted by jacktherer@reddit | collapse | View on Reddit | 631 comments

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631 Comments

Least-Lime2014@reddit

I would sooner die than serve NATO in any capacity. Also I'd like to point out how conscription was done away with in Vietnam due to an incredibly high rate of officers ending up murdered by fragging. Just some nice food for thought.
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sybariticantelope@reddit

Doubt
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equinoxEmpowered@reddit

The enemy got behind us and shot him in the back with captured weapons, sir.
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trustyourrespirator@reddit

"Third time that happened to your unit, how do you keep escaping?" "Luck I guess"
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Lastbalmain@reddit

The EU, the US, Nato and the military industrial complex......all signs of the end days for Capitalism. They are once again feeding us scary stories, doom and gloom, enemies everywhere, and for what? Fear! Fear sells. Fear makes you anxious. Fear makes you retreat into your own "safe area" or country. Collapse is coming. Not tomorrow or even this decade, maybe not for many decades,  but it's coming. Because the rich are making massive amounts of profit off of our fear. The richest peoples wealth increased more than threefold over the pandemic and wars. Climate change will eventually fuck us. But the mega rich will keep making vast profits to the last human.....they simply are that greedy/stupid. Till their last cash cows bite the dust. And at the very end, as they slowly run out of everything, they'll moan and groan about the lack of service. Sitting in rooms full of gold, jewels, fine art and antiquities, and cash, they'll scrape away at everything to eke out a last meal......but there'll be none, they'll already have eaten the last of their staff.
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sybariticantelope@reddit

Capitalism is when war
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jacktherer@reddit (OP)

obviously collapse related because this sort of conflict can literally destroy the world. also even without military conflict, nations may collapse when they realize their populations arent healthy enough for conscription
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Manifest0Man@reddit

lol they'll get conscripted anyway
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dasunt@reddit

Tooth to tail ratio. Even in WWII, only about 20% of the troops were used for combat, and 80% was used in support. There's a lot of support roles in a technologically advanced military. Supply, repair, communication, and intelligence just doesn't happen by itself.
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organizedpotatoes@reddit

Yup, and that's insidious. Militaries will mostly conscript for roles that are non-combat and so people feel abstracted from the damage that they are inflicting. Like you say, that's the majority of the military.
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StoopSign@reddit

I can confidently say I would reject any and all forms of conscription. The problem is that it will be exceptionally hard to flee to a Non-Nato country.
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organizedpotatoes@reddit

Yep, or just go camping a bunch? I'm not serving them. Perhaps I'll die.
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MoldedCum@reddit

Same here. I'm a bushcrafter since i was a child, and my dad taught me how to fish since i could barely walk. Hunting i've picked up observing and I live in northern finland, they'll have to be damn good if theyre gonna find me come conscription tbh
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Hemmmos@reddit

If they manage to find you and hand you conscription notice despite despite all of your security meansures, you might as well take it, out of the respect for the effort xd
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MoldedCum@reddit

absolutely. I'll make them work for it, not because i hate the government, but because if they really need me that bad that they'll find me, I'll serve not because I respect the authority, but because I respect the effort they put into finding me lol
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LuciferianInk@reddit

Other people say, "I think the military is going to be very much in the hands of the government, but I think the general public is going to be more likely to follow the orders given."
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Efficient_Star_1336@reddit

*"Hola! ¿Cómo está usted? Tiene trabajo?"*
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Frostbitn99@reddit

The irony that soon we will be beating down Mexico's door to get out of the US. Wasn't that a scene in "Don't Look Up"?
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StoopSign@reddit

Holy crap. TIL Mexico isn't in NATO.
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livlaffluv420@reddit

Look, I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again: If they give me a giant Mech with a buster sword & make other servicefolk call me “Pilot” - well goddamnit, I’m in. But not a moment before!
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livlaffluv420@reddit

Look, I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again: If they give me a giant Mech with a buster sword & make other servicefolk call me “Pilot” - well goddamnit, I’m in. But not a moment before!
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HistoryWest9592@reddit

They try and pull a draft in the US, ther will be RIOTS
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HistoryWest9592@reddit

Those roles are all targets sir, what the hell do you think an MLRS is for? It's designed to blow up an entire grid square.
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juflyingwild@reddit

Look at the ukraine for example. Already conscription old men, disabled people, amputees and even women ffs.
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Unhappy_Steak333@reddit

Can you hold a gun? Welcome to the war!
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LuciferianInk@reddit

i have a gun
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Unhappy_Steak333@reddit

Welcome to war then
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LuciferianInk@reddit

My robot says, "I think the world would be better off if people were allowed to have guns in public places, like schools or workplaces, instead of being restricted to private homes or prisons."
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Unhappy_Steak333@reddit

Very faulty logic but okay ig
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Lauzz91@reddit

They don't need them to fight in the war, they need them to die in the war. Productive assets have now turned to liabilities with robotics, AI, resource scarcity, overpopulation, so they are sent off to die
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Efficient_Star_1336@reddit

That's a common theory, but how does it square with the fact that the people in charge (politicians, executives, and so on) are much more pro-immigration, relative to the population in general? If they wanted the population to go down, they could presumably just let the birthrate do its thing. Much cheaper than replacing all of the expensive infrastructure a war would destroy.
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Jung_Wheats@reddit

At the elite level, you don't care about the population in a single country, you're concerned about global population levels. Immigration between states is, ultimately, not super relevant as the rulers of the world are not loyal to or trapped in any one country. Within one country, immigration (and especially illegal immigration) benefits the rulers because it provides a constant influx of new laborers without the protections of citizenship. They are also an easy scapegoat for people within that country as they are so obviously 'different' to the eyes of the lazy and the stupid. Arguably, you also don't necessarily want population to go down until you've maximized robotic technology to it's fullest potential. Shrinking population sizes means more power in the hands of labor; with less potential workers the ability to demand better treatment goes up. Look into the aftermath of the Black Death in Europe for a quick overview on the concept. And, then also, as for infrastructure. They don't care how cheap or inexpensive infrastructure is because RICH PEOPLE DON'T PAY TAXES. Infrastructure costs, which overwhelmingly benefit the wealthy, are passed on to the middle-class, the working class, and the poor through taxation. War is a win-win for the rulers. You send poor people off to die, but not at such drastic numbers as it raises labor costs. You get to syphon tax dollars off by selling weaponry, fuel, repair parts, shipping, clothing, food, and other support material, etc. etc. You make fat stacks on war, then you get all the fat government contracts to come back and put everything back together again. It's literally the Joe Dirt fireworks/veterinarian situation. "Someone sticks a firecracker up a bullfrogs ass and comes back to you to fix it, it's a win-win brother."
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Efficient_Star_1336@reddit

> At the elite level, you don't care about the population in a single country, you're concerned about global population levels. If you care about resource conservation, it matters immensely. A guy in the U.S. consumes vastly more resources than the same guy in Guatemala. If there's a conspiracy around population control, it'd be about conserving resources, and immigration works to the opposite ends. > Within one country, immigration (and especially illegal immigration) benefits the rulers because it provides a constant influx of new laborers without the protections of citizenship. That's the safe justification for the elite supporting migration, but it doesn't track. Immigration is an enormous net cost to the state - the social services consumed outweigh the taxes paid by orders of magnitude. Any rich guy who wants to use the government to get richer could pick a far less unpopular (I don't think there's a single point in recent history in which "more immigration" was preferred over "less immigration" in opinion polls) issue and transfer resources into his own pockets far more efficiently. Whatever it's about, it's not about money. > Arguably, you also don't necessarily want population to go down until you've maximized robotic technology to it's fullest potential. Shrinking population sizes means more power in the hands of labor; with less potential workers the ability to demand better treatment goes up. Well, optimal population size would definitely go down. If I have 500 non-automated jobs, total labor market saturation is, say, 750 working-age citizens. Everything beyond that is just taking up resources needlessly. If 500 goes down to 50, the optimal population then becomes 75. > And, then also, as for infrastructure. They don't care how cheap or inexpensive infrastructure is because RICH PEOPLE DON'T PAY TAXES. Infrastructure costs, which overwhelmingly benefit the wealthy, are passed on to the middle-class, the working class, and the poor through taxation. Well, objectively, no. The overwhelming majority of U.S. taxes are paid by the top one percent. It's true that policy redirects those taxes from the .01% to their closest competitors for power (the guy who owns a factory or two and the guy who owns a car dealership are the big payers, and the middle class is arguably taxed at severe rates despite it making up next to no share of revenue purely to weaken them as a class), but even if taxes as a concept did not exist at all, and government spending just materialized from a fixed pool, the people that run the government benefit from spending those resources efficiently. Same concept as above - if I can lobby the government to spend $1 trillion on migration, getting me $250 billion in extra profits, I could just as easily lobby to funnel $500 billion directly into my pockets with less public controversy (since I'm costing the people less, and not unleashing any negative externalities on them).
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DrinknKnow@reddit

Nobody in the main stream media has talked about how a whole generation of young Ukrainian men has disappeared.
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Lauzz91@reddit

[Ukraine's population pyramid tells its own story](https://prnt.sc/kr97J9x9xMhq)
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livlaffluv420@reddit

This is what perplexes me about the COVID conspiracy theories: It’s like, do these guys know their argument for how diabolically evil & powerful the global wealthy elite are kinda collapses in on itself, bc under such logic, they could totally just release an actual killer virus whenever they wanted if their supposed control was as insidious & complete as claimed? Like if “ThEy 👻” *really* wanted us offed en masse, you wouldn't still be here whinging along to mask mandate outrage vids on b*tchute, Derek… Besides, War is so painfully obvious as being more profitable than his other fellow horsemen - your brand of tinfoil hatting is much closer to the mark, I say; they’ll do this thing the good old-fashioned way ☝️
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Lauzz91@reddit

Por qué no los dos?
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livlaffluv420@reddit

The good old Two for the price of One? Would they really be so bold tho? That move is sooo last century.
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ObssesesWithSquares@reddit

Exactly why i would rather go to jail than be conscripted. Im more likely to be killed by allies than enemies.  Especially with thoughts about wanting to be self-reliant and sustaining. This means i dont want to buy corporate crap that i didn't make myself.
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tjoe4321510@reddit

Die but also have more babies somehow
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yellow_1173@reddit

You do have to remember that throughout history, and mostly still today, it has been the men who do the fighting. Realistically, anything close to equal numbers of men and women is an inefficient use of resources. In the modern world, efficiency has taken a backseat to humanistic principles, at least in advanced nations. The exact numbers are debatable, but it wouldn't be surprising to see men able to impregnate tens or even hundreds of women at a time through natural methods and millions through artificial insemination. Really, the limiting factor is genetic diversity. With the natural method, the men may even be happier in the short term. In the long term, men are happier in monogamous or small poly pairings since there's actually emotion and caring involved, but when trying to be efficient, who has time for any of that. With modern tech, the old issue of losing the labor force will be gone, and what does still need to be done could be done by the women. Of course, this would lead to crazy societal issues, and even if done naturally, it would either require sex hormone intervention to keep the number of male births down or just good old infanticide, only of males this time. Fun stuff that would be considered farfetched in a dystopia novel.
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OctopusIntellect@reddit

>nations may collapse when they realize their populations arent healthy enough for conscription Bit of a stretch. In reality, when the UK realised in 1914 that half the military age population were less than five feet tall and could barely walk because of having had rickets as children, the government response wasn't to collapse, but instead was to introduce various forms of social security and free elementary schooling with compulsory PE and "drill".
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JayTheDirty@reddit

This isn’t 1914. That’d be called socialism and be used by a politician to rake in more donations.
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Jung_Wheats@reddit

It's only 'socialism' until it becomes 'compulsory patriotism', comrade.
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JayTheDirty@reddit

Kind of like the entire right wing?
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precise-upvoter@reddit

What populations arent healthy? 
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Overall_Box_3907@reddit

welp, maybe i should try to become a politican and get a mandate befor i get conscripted
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Gloomy_Permission190@reddit

The article mentions that 40% of the entire Russian budget is going toward militarization. They are completely committed to taking Ukraine. Historically and culturally they have no problem throwing bodies at this. Putin is very dangerous and recognizes NATO's nations not having the stomach for war. We can just add this to the plethora of existential threats we all face.
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_rihter@reddit

>Putin is very dangerous and recognizes NATO's nations not having the stomach for war. I fully agree with this. Russia's been at war for two years. Most European nations haven't fought a war since 1945 and have tiny military budgets. Ukraine's acting like a buffer zone for NATO, but they aren't getting enough support.
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are-e-el@reddit

As the saying goes: Fight (and defeat) the Russians now in Ukraine or fight them again later in Poland
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livlaffluv420@reddit

Probably this timeline’s NATO: “Invade Russia during Winter? Got it!”
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daviddjg0033@reddit

Why invade when you can just watch Russia collapse from their failed Ukraine war?
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Feral_Praxis@reddit

The big financial backer of NATO, the US has become weary of war. Every nation that’s ever defeated the US knows that can’t win in a straight brawl. They know they have to exhaust the civilian public. 20 years of non-stop war in the Middle East has already done that for Putin. The US will commit its regular military to all sorts of peace keeping shit, but a WW2 style conscript military will take a lot of lobbying.
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HistoryWest9592@reddit

NATO are a bunch of IDIOTS for provoking Russia. Putin will get the last laugh.
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Vegetaman916@reddit

It's not a commitment to taking Ukraine. That is a first step, yes, but the commitment is to retaking all the old Soviet territory. But that won't really be a newsworthy talking point until after China drops the hammer on Taiwan...
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GrinNGrit@reddit

So many people in this sub are either in denial or are bots. Lots of pro-Russia, pro-China sentiment despite literally the entire western foreign policy this generation is based on defense. The next world war will start the same way as they have in the past, one of these dictators will escalate to a point that cannot be ignored. Look at Finland and the Baltic states, they know they’re next, and they’re building up barriers to stop an invasion. But without global support, the EU on its own will struggle to hold back an offensive. This isn’t just Russia, it’s Russia backed by Iran and North Korea, and more subtly by China. And if Russia succeeds, China will become much more brazen and taken Taiwan. Then I fear South Korea will be at high risk. When the US is telling Israel to back off of the warmongering, it tells you there is a much larger instability in the world that we need to be ready for. Not to mention we already tried “winning over the hearts and minds” of the region, and for most people, things only ended up worse.
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l_think_therefore_I@reddit

you won "hearts and minds" of Ukrainians and decided to not give any aid this year (60 billion US package and 50 billion EU package)
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GrinNGrit@reddit

Hey, man, I *swear* I’m not Biden, and I’m *definitely* not 100 Senators and 435 Representatives in a suit… On an unrelated note, hypothetically speaking, how would you feel if I promised student loan forgiveness and *didn’t* deliver?
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l_think_therefore_I@reddit

student loan in America is messed up, I am studying bachelors in Slovakia for free, so idk
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GrinNGrit@reddit

Sorry, that was meant to be a joke, that I actually am Joe Biden lol
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ObssesesWithSquares@reddit

At least the main culprits will weaken and dismantle each other
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GrinNGrit@reddit

Silver lining! I do hope that in the competing interests of the various demagogues and dictators that a world war is unable to form in any cohesive way.
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Vegetaman916@reddit

You don't have to convince me, my friend. I've been shouting about this for quite some time now... https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/s/L7zhE70ibu
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ObssesesWithSquares@reddit

Neither doed Russia. The Russian conscripts sure love to surrender in-mass and let Ukraniand through.  They also tend to have really poor morale. He is only winning because Ukraine needs absurd amounts of modern equipment to make up for the lack of manpower, and having to defeat Russia who's dug in, and doesen't care about destroying itself in the process of taking Ukraine. Russia itself has nowhere to go other than forward. This is probably it's last chance to be the world dictator, instead of dying out.
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Psychological-Sport1@reddit

Fuck the world’s militaries, we should be spending that money on medical biotechnology and nanotechnology so as to cure all diseases and the diseases of aging. Check out Reddit longevity and the [www.SENS.org](https://www.SENS.org) project and Aubrey de gray’s longevity escape velocity foundation and videos by Aubrey and dr Sinclair in Silicon Valley and also www.fightagin.org
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Responsible-Row-6923@reddit

Conscription in the US would lead to levels of civil unrest not yet seen lol
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Cloaked42m@reddit

If there was a big enough threat, it wouldn't be a problem. It would have to be something like France has fallen, or Mexico invaded. Dallas was nuked. That level of big.
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Porphyrysm@reddit

You mean it would have to be the kinda threat that Leaves The World Behind....
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Cloaked42m@reddit

Nah, too chaotic. Who do you support?
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Porphyrysm@reddit

I support Farrah Mackenzie with my heart of hearts ..!! But seriously though wdym..? You meant "then who should one support" ..? in general or me personally There'll be the local crime gangs, the old mafia's & ruthless cartels, the cops & firefighters, the PMC outfits, then each nuclear plant's and a few other shipping or industrial unions or staffers banding together, various FEMA & federal agencies each joining/deploying together with a given military branch or section thereof ; Then you got billionaire bunkers & the PMC armies they hired, you got a thousand prepper & offgrid compounds/enclaves/farms across north america alone, you got hezbollah sleeper cells springing into action, you got proud boys and a dozen other far-right militias all trying to shout muh freedom muh patriotism while chasing after iranian/chinese/russian bogeymen after the EMP/cyber grid attack.. There's just scratching the surface of all the various groups that emerge after a collapse of american law/order that one could choose to support I myself support vegetaman's post-collapse tribe lol, likely allied with my own *(neosocialist, ecototalitarian, hierarchistic, illiberal)*
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Cloaked42m@reddit

That's pretty much what I meant. "Leave the world behind" is this incredibly chaotic situation where the prepper was right. Who do you trust, support, ally yourself with? Looks like we'll find out soon.
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MittMuckerbin@reddit

When the Metroplex gets nuked its going to come from within /r/AfterTheRevolution
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Cloaked42m@reddit

I'm not gonna look. I'm trying really hard to believe there are good people.
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MittMuckerbin@reddit

It's Dystopian novel, not another group of preppers.
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twisted_f00l@reddit

Written by a guy who is based as fuck. It's a cyberpunk novel where the death of an entire family is described in the same chapter a character named "skullfucker mike" is introduced.
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PublicToast@reddit

I’m not doing shit for *France*.
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Cloaked42m@reddit

If France fell to an outside force, that means that force went through all of Europe to get there. At that point it turns into WW2 thinking. We'd rather fight them there, than here. But if we don't fight them there, we are DEFINITELY going to have to fight them here.
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Extreme-Self5491@reddit

I can live with France being invaded, we'll help you out two times but third time you sort it out and ffs complete that Maginot line.
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Cloaked42m@reddit

Fair
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speakhyroglyphically@reddit

> If there was a big enough threat, You can bet theyll sure make it sound like it
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Cloaked42m@reddit

No, I mean the kind of threat that is unavoidable and unspinnable. That would make people be okay with conscription.
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speakhyroglyphically@reddit

Yeah. And it'll sound like exactly that It's all spin. Always has been and always will be
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Cloaked42m@reddit

Yeah.. nukes actually destroying an American city would be "spin"
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sakamake@reddit

If nukes destroy an American city, it won't be "spin," it will just be the end of the world. Feel free to report for duty in that scenario if you feel that will be the best use of your remaining time.
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AncientAlienAntFarm@reddit

I mean, a nuke on Dallas would be a pretty big deal.
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rea1l1@reddit

If they manage to nuke things the modern world is already over. Your little puny self with a gun is irrelevant in a nuclear war.
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freudian-flip@reddit

Meh.
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ILearnedTheHardaway@reddit

I am not fighting a war for a country so badly in decline like the US. I’m not gonna die for their interests. If they want people to actually wanna serve they have to make the reward for service something worth it.
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trade-craft@reddit

>If they want people to actually wanna serve they have to make the reward for service something worth it You get to come back and live in a tent on the street, be looked down on by fellow citizens and live a marginalized life while being forgotten/treat like shit by Uncle Sam, now that you're USELESS. You want more?
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christophlc6@reddit

I will lay down my supple frame to protect the Kentaco hut along side my fellow good boys. This is my battle cry... REEEEEEEEEEeeEEEeeeeEee
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GnosticRaven@reddit

An Islamist coup d'etat will collapse France from within sooner or later.
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NICK16_06@reddit

That or a neo-fascist regime based on racial and religious discrimination.
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Chaos_cassandra@reddit

Yeah it turns out you can decide not to go. Or shoot your commander in the back as soon as they give you a gun. Good luck conscripting gen Z.
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West_Mail4807@reddit

Gen Z are rather deluded. At some point there is always the possibility of going to war, even if that is due to civil unrest leading to civil war caused because too many people refuse to go to war overseas.... Be careful what you wish for.
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MoldedCum@reddit

would be kind of insane to see a mandatory conscription service in the US in my lifetime lol. Like Finland but ALL US citizens who are eligible 18 year olds...
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DefaultName919@reddit

Probably would be something similar to the [Civil War Draft Riots](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_City_draft_riots).
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christophlc6@reddit

This time with hurricanes!
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LARPerator@reddit

Yeah I can't imagine what would happen. I'm guessing there'd be a lot of people who'd take the "if you want me to fight a war so bad I'll do it right here" stance. I doubt the geriatrics in charge understand that people only willingly sign up or go along with conscription when they believe in their country; that's long gone here, and most people feel like they're betrayed by their country. The major political issue now is not whether that's true, but who's the betrayer and who's their savior. Conscription to go fight a war on another continent would be pure chaos at home.
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Jung_Wheats@reddit

If by 'prepare' you mean drinking a lot and smoking too much, then I'm already on the right path!
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HikingComrade@reddit

Ha! If I get drafted into the military, I’ll just self-delete. Or maybe spy for the other side? I hate the US; I’m not helping it win any wars.
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tekmaster2020@reddit

I think you might have gotten yourself on a list there….
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HikingComrade@reddit

Oh, I say this all the time. I’m a young white woman; I doubt they’ll view me as a threat, anyways. I’m more likely to self-delete than actually do any damage. I’m probably already on some lists.
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takesallcomers@reddit

Umm, for its vast problems, what country, realistically, would be better suited to be the world's superpower? The choices ain't great
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HikingComrade@reddit

Why do we need a world superpower? Sounds a bit too much like “white man’s burden” to me.
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takesallcomers@reddit

Do you seriously believe that someone AINT taking that spot if it's seen as potentially up for grabs?
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teamsaxon@reddit

Hey LIST GUYS WE KNOW YOU'RE HERE poopeepoo I'm gonna self delete before you send me off to war, jackasses
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thelastofthebastion@reddit

>maybe spy for the other side? I hate the US; I’m not helping it win any wars. I've genuinely been contemplating finding a way to work for China in their green development & sustainability sector...
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prolveg@reddit

Hi comrade :)
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deleted_by_reddit@reddit

[removed]
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collapse-ModTeam@reddit

Hi, Sad_Clothes5110. Thanks for contributing. However, your [comment](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/comments/19bihj7/-/kjg3hkg/) was removed from /r/collapse for: > Rule 4: Keep information quality high. > Information quality must be kept high. More detailed information regarding our approaches to specific claims can be found on the [Misinformation & False Claims page](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/wiki/claims). Please refer to our [subreddit rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/about/rules/) for more information. You can [message the mods](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose/?to=/r/collapse) if you feel this was in error, please include a link to the comment or post in question.
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Grand-Leg-1130@reddit

Went to Afghanistan twice courtesy of Uncle Sam and ended up with lifelong back and respiratory problems from living next to a damn burn pit, but at least they can no longer call me back in.
View on Reddit #18462689

CannerCanCan@reddit

Watching the burn pit issue play out as someone outside the US has been interesting. The entire focus seems to have been on how enlisted American personnel were the victims. I haven't seen a single mention of how the affected local people who had even less control over the situation. And less recourse too. Like agent orange all over again.
View on Reddit #18501620

KiaRioGrl@reddit

The US troops eventually got to leave, the locals are stuck there with a water supply that's almost certainly toxic (forget about the leftover depleted uranium shells littering the landscape).Their babies and grandbabies will have mysterious cancers, too.
View on Reddit #18509739

AggravatingMark1367@reddit

And the US will almost certainly never face justice 
View on Reddit #18777218

i-luv-ducks@reddit

Well I'm 73, am I over the age limit yet?
View on Reddit #18472014

Feral_Praxis@reddit

I’m thinking of Britain’s Home Guard during WW2. They’d take a 73 year old if they volunteered.
View on Reddit #18473499

i-luv-ducks@reddit

Under such conditions as Britain suffered, I'd gladly join.
View on Reddit #18476708

Feral_Praxis@reddit

I mean if Hitler had managed Operation Sea Lion the Home Guard would’ve been the first line in many areas.
View on Reddit #18484326

i-luv-ducks@reddit

And as an elderly gent I would've operated in a non-combat capacity.
View on Reddit #18487105

Feral_Praxis@reddit

Right, an Army marches on its stomach and shoe leather and boots are as valuable as bullets. It takes all types sadly. There was a pretty heart warming study done on men restricted to asylums in Britain during the war. The Home Guard had recruited large numbers of mentally unfit men for tasks that others had seen as menial. There was a uptick in their wellness reported by the patients as “having a sense of purpose.” Most of them were involved in clean up and rescue style excavations in London during the Blitz.
View on Reddit #18556385

i-luv-ducks@reddit

Thank you for that wonderful bit of WWII British history. So much to learn from that place and era, I don't think WWII movies will ever go out of fashion.
View on Reddit #18642537

Feral_Praxis@reddit

You're welcome, I think the Homefront is sometimes overlooked in the history books. Recently I actually found a modern Chinese movie on WW2, and had learned things I had only peripheral knowledge of. If one can ignore the patriotic propaganda in the film the attention to detail in terms of setting, the events portrayed, and the uniforms worn by both sides it's a masterpiece.
View on Reddit #18702424

i-luv-ducks@reddit

Incredible, thanks! Here are some documentaries I just found about the Homefront, both for WWII AND WWI: https://www.youtube.com/results?search\_query=britain%27shomefront
View on Reddit #18715392

Mighty_L_LORT@reddit

Dad’s Army…
View on Reddit #18486351

i-luv-ducks@reddit

Maybe even granddad's army.
View on Reddit #18487144

Sororita@reddit

depends on how bad it gets, really.
View on Reddit #18477046

i-luv-ducks@reddit

Well of course, wouldn't wanna rouse you outta bed or disturb your afternoon tea and crumpets with the Earl or Duchess of Whateversbury for anything trivial, my good fellow!
View on Reddit #18487315

Johundhar@reddit

And Sweden in particular is telling its citizens to get themselves prepared for war
View on Reddit #18462870

catterson46@reddit

I lived in Sweden I was shocked to see a Swedish official talk that way.  Most Swedes have lived in a protectIve bubble for generations. They need such straight talk. Finland is always prepared. 
View on Reddit #18512799

Johundhar@reddit

I mean, I guess it's always good to be prepared. But it seems like the Ukraine war is degrading Russia's ability to wage war anywhere else pretty fast. Or am I missing something?
View on Reddit #18515319

HeftyResearch1719@reddit

I think what’s missing is how unstable many regions are becoming. Not only external threats but civil unrest as systems degrade.
View on Reddit #18625370

Johundhar@reddit

apropos of nothing: the paths of self deception are endless
View on Reddit #18635923

Bigd1979666@reddit

And who says Putin will be alive then? Not to say he won't be replaced by a like-minded individual but still. I'm more concerned about climate change and the fact that humans are eliminating species at a catastrophic rate. Wouldn't mind so much if I didn't have kids .
View on Reddit #18469080

Lev_Alens@reddit

Climate change will also become fuel for war as resources (such as food, water or wood) become more scarce.
View on Reddit #18495410

PermieCulture@reddit

The book Tropic of Chaos points out these wars are very much in action today and as you say, will indeed be more of them as the resources become more scarce.
View on Reddit #18610072

Lev_Alens@reddit

Nice recommendation. I'll try to check it out. As a guess, it touches themes such as oil in Middle East and fertile lands in Ukraine? Both are clear examples, but I guess more is happening in the world that is related to the same. Not just wars in the sense of armed conflict, but also foreign intervention in government policies around the world and such.
View on Reddit #18610647

Suckamanhwewhuuut@reddit

Within 20 years could mean 4 months which is probably more likely and why they are saying within 20 years so people won’t panic
View on Reddit #18474324

diuge@reddit

I really wonder if journalists are just putting "in 20 years" to their headlines to keep folks calm.
View on Reddit #18525758

Suckamanhwewhuuut@reddit

We’re going to see significant changes from here on out, it appears we have reached a threshold where weather is harder to predict and storms are more frequent and more powerful. They will continue to grow more powerful every year as the oceans absorb more heat energy and more ice melts. We are going to be at war over resources like food and water. Within the next 20 years is extremely optimistic, I’d say 2 years max before the world we grew up in is completely different.
View on Reddit #18530233

diuge@reddit

Even a small amount of unpredictable weather within normal ranges is enough to cripple agriculture.
View on Reddit #18575730

billcube@reddit

Akin to "climate change could make life impossible for humans on earth by 2100"
View on Reddit #18521765

Cenko85@reddit

Exactly! 20 years? What a joke! 2025 the VERY latest.
View on Reddit #18502768

EllieBaby97420@reddit

Gotta keep the machine turning ya? Can’t cause that panic by saying shit will hit the fan in the next year. Surely this was apart of Putins plan all along. Get Trump elected, try and get him a second term no matter what, and then go to war with the support of the US. Just missed the presidency he wanted but he had to follow through anyways. End the 2020 presidency with a big bang to do whatever the fuck. Obviously that’s all speculation, i’m no expert on war. Either way we’re so fucked
View on Reddit #18478315

livlaffluv420@reddit

Wanna know something crazy? We are literally at the point where a loony tunes dictator not unlike Putin could continue fulfilling their position indefinitely postmortem thanks to AI generated appearances, mandates, & commands, & we have been at this point for at least a couple yrs now, whether the broader public realizes this or not. This is based on knowledge of recent great leaps forward made in consumer grade computations - imagine the stuff we haven’t been shown that exists behind closed doors… Fun Fact: the US gov’t has lost track of dozens of *trillions* of taxpayer dollars over the decades according to audits, with no signs of slowing…now, where do you suppose such massive quantities of “money” went, & do you suppose they are the only world power engaged in such secret siphoning to fund who knows what advanced endeavours?
View on Reddit #18550903

Quigonjinn12@reddit

It’s not about if Putin is alive then, and if you haven’t noticed, things tend to happen much faster than we predict them to these days. Could be the next 5 years for all we know
View on Reddit #18472616

Poonce@reddit

Sooner
View on Reddit #18475031

billcube@reddit

Remember a strategy could be to have EU/NATO spend a lot on weapons instead of solving immigration/integration issues and that will be used to collapse it from inside.
View on Reddit #18521846

OddMeasurement7467@reddit

If BRICS goes to war with NATO, the only way they can win is to destroy all advanced chip manufacturing abilities within a few days on their enemy territory. Else manpower can’t win this war. It’s like flinging men into the direct path of a gattling gun. Good luck BRICS. Hover swarms of c4 can decimate millions of troops at one go. Sure there’s a few billion people, just need to make more drone swarms. A billion drones… skies might go dark.
View on Reddit #18478337

technical_todd@reddit

They don't need to win. They just need us to lose. They could knock us out in a single day. A coordinated strike in space taking out our satellites with a cyber attack that disables our critical infrastructure (especially the power grid) would create so much chaos domestically that there'd be no way we could mount a serious campaign against them. In the time it takes for us to turn the lights back on, they could take out our global military bases and naval capabilities. We're much more vulnerable than people think. Sure, we have the biggest military in the history of the planet, but it runs on communication networks and logistical supply chains that are relatively soft targets.
View on Reddit #18485053

Violent_Yet_Polite@reddit

Did time in the Fleet. Power grids? That is scary stuff. I’ll give you that. As far as decapitation strikes in cyber or real space? Doesn’t work quite like that. Intentionally. What you should worry about is the contingencies that go into effect and the retaliation that follows in an ATTEMPT (I won’t even theorize a success) of this scenario. Hint: it’s not “they don’t have to win”. It’s literally we ALL lose.
View on Reddit #18485815

technical_todd@reddit

Yes, we all lose. But we lose more. Most of those countries would fare better, and their governments would practically prefer it, if we went into a new dark ages.
View on Reddit #18489024

OddMeasurement7467@reddit

Not happening. You guys are over crediting the power of China and Russia. They’re so corrupt, their military ain’t functioning properly.
View on Reddit #18503243

technical_todd@reddit

I'm not disagreeing with that. But they're far better at cyber warfare than actual combat.
View on Reddit #18519483

Xexx@reddit

They can't even do that in Ukraine. They're literally dying in holes in freezing weather 40 miles from the Russian border and they've had 2 years to advance.
View on Reddit #18485376

OddMeasurement7467@reddit

Exactly. The threat isn’t real, it’s posturing. If China has the tech so much more advance than the US. They would’ve simply taken Taiwan.
View on Reddit #18503271

technical_todd@reddit

Both sides are playing it extremely safe in Ukraine. If we wanted to, we could expel Russia from Ukraine in a week. If Russia wanted to, it could turn Ukraine into an irradiated waste land. Neither side does it out of fear of the reprocussions, not lack of ability.
View on Reddit #18489165

OddMeasurement7467@reddit

That sounded like the Netflix show. But yeah I got you. Likelihood of that ever happening, probably low. I mean come on you have generals and staff stealing ICBM fuel so they can cook hotpot..
View on Reddit #18503202

Laffingglassop@reddit

You misspelled days
View on Reddit #18500660

dasunt@reddit

Climate change is going to destabilize some regions. That'll make war more likely.
View on Reddit #18504973

Towbee@reddit

If war doesn't wipe out society as we know it climate change will. We're fucked either way, enjoy the ride with your kids as best as you can while you can.
View on Reddit #18475820

Pollux95630@reddit

Hope for the best but plan for the worst. It will most certainly be the latter.
View on Reddit #18497933

theMEtheWORLDcantSEE@reddit

EXACTLY. Buckle up buttercup, here come the climate wars.
View on Reddit #18482911

Evolution-Pressure@reddit

Me neither. I can't have kids so that government could use them as soldiers or slaves in factory.
View on Reddit #18496286

FinleyPike@reddit

War and climate change are going to be part of the same problem in 20 years
View on Reddit #18489393

NICK16_06@reddit

Rest assured that all out war will most likely break out before catabolic collapse makes society implode.
View on Reddit #18488092

BardanoBois@reddit

Putin has other puppets in place to take over. Probably much worse than him. I wouldn't wish Putin dead right now..
View on Reddit #18483490

prirva_@reddit

Putin has like 6-7 killer enablers in his inner circle. See Patrushev, very ruthless and directly responsible for the killing of Prigozhyn. The issue isn’t Putin, it’s the society that developed and enabled Putin.
View on Reddit #18476393

NadiaYvette@reddit

It doesn't matter if Putin is alive then. The last arable land on Earth will be in Siberia and Alaska, and the neocons already own Alaska. They'll be going to war to seize it.
View on Reddit #18472153

OddMeasurement7467@reddit

Sweden? Against who? Russia and Iran? Sure the axis of powers are lining up and if that is the case for war, it’s going to be a logistical nightmare. It’s takes 8-10 hours just to fly across the Pacific and Atlantic to reach the USA. Assuming that production run time is 2 hours per SAM missile, there’s no way a plane or ship is going to make it past defenses. The only way to win this war is to go tiny - drone swarm. Or go big - nukes. Where defense is still arguably questionable. WW2 platoon of bombers flying over cities and bombing cities? Nah it doesn’t happen given today’s seeking missiles. Unless of course right at the beginning of war all production facilities for high tech components are destroyed. And war tech goes rudimentary.
View on Reddit #18478107

eatmilfasseveryday@reddit

EMP, take out the power grid and any country will collapse.
View on Reddit #18512971

OddMeasurement7467@reddit

Yes, but there’s no EMP bomb per se. It’s not like they can fly supersonic, drop EMP. Or fire EMP missile like in games….
View on Reddit #18513359

eatmilfasseveryday@reddit

Why can't they? The technology is available.
View on Reddit #18514938

JayTheDirty@reddit

All they’d have to do is release a bunch of balloons or drone swarms off the coast somewhere flying low.
View on Reddit #18515122

eatmilfasseveryday@reddit

Couple hundred people with sawzalls cutting down high voltage towers.
View on Reddit #18515266

JayTheDirty@reddit

It’s crazy to me how easy it would be to take down basic infrastructure. Do that and America might eat itself.
View on Reddit #18515576

eatmilfasseveryday@reddit

Its already failing from lack of maintenance. But the stock market is at record highs.
View on Reddit #18521613

JayTheDirty@reddit

So I guess we’re all good /s
View on Reddit #18521783

atf_shot_my_dog_@reddit

"They" can always change the rules and do whatever they want. Do you think germany wasn't conscripting war veterans in the last half of WW2?
View on Reddit #18598448

Lauzz91@reddit

They'll put you on the front-lines first as you have combat experience
View on Reddit #18470679

Grand-Leg-1130@reddit

If they are drapery enough to draft a physically broken dick like me we are on the brink of nuclear war
View on Reddit #18470727

Druzhyna@reddit

Russia has drafted the mentally institutionalized, prison convicts, urban junkies and backountry drunks. In an existential war, literally everybody's going to fight.
View on Reddit #18471352

HerefortheTuna@reddit

Well in America this time they’ll have to take the trans and the women too
View on Reddit #18561556

ArthurParkerhouse@reddit

That just seems like they're pushing out a lot of troops who aren't well trained and mostly for the meat grinder for the first few years of the war. They probably consider it a bonus to get rid of the less desirable first so less state funds are spent on people in prisons and hospitals while they spend more time providing extra training to well adapted troops for now.
View on Reddit #18478404

Lev_Alens@reddit

Sounds like a smart move
View on Reddit #18495579

livlaffluv420@reddit

The word you’re looking for is “cunning” For instance, Pearl Harbor was “cunning”…it was not “smart”, however. See the difference? It’s all fun & games playing big bad dictator until someone is shoving a bayonet up your ass in front of some ancient Roman ruins for all of twitter to see… This concept is also known as humanity’s favorite pastime: “fuck around, find out” Remember to get out there & vote this fall, Swifties! 🤗
View on Reddit #18552215

Lev_Alens@reddit

That could be the word I'm looking for. It's literally the first time I see or hear it, so IDK. Still don't look up the exact definition. Anyway, "smart" is not synonym with "good", "ethic" or "free of consequences". I was using it in a way more similar to "strategic", considering the aforementioned [probable] goals and reasonings. I also don't understand the reference about the ruins and twitter.
View on Reddit #18554612

Grand-Leg-1130@reddit

The Russians are targeting the lowest of society for conscription because they don’t want to rock the boat with the urban elite in Moscow and St Petersburg
View on Reddit #18471499

ProfessorStrawbs@reddit

Just because they draft you doesn’t mean you have to do as you’re told. Turn your guns on officers or all lay down your arms and refuse. If you’re going to die anyway firing squad will be quicker so just fuck them up
View on Reddit #18516102

Lauzz91@reddit

Yes
View on Reddit #18475814

IWillBeRightHere@reddit

They'll have to f****** shoot me I'm not going back to war again.
View on Reddit #18498795

exterminateThis@reddit

I have back pain and respiratory problems from sitting at a desk and smoking weed to deal with the boringness. But I can get called to serve. 
View on Reddit #18463103

paigescactus@reddit

Where do you live? If in the USA or any other place that has a great amount of freedoms this is a horrible thing to say. Without ppl like the guy you are responding to you wouldn’t be free to say this type of shit. Yea the military sucks but it’s needed. Or you’d be under control and your life would be vastly different. I am not saying what America did in the Middle East gave you freedom. But ppl enlisting into the military keeps America free. Along with other countries who do the same. Just feels bad to see you shifting on it but not also giving thanks because of the liberties and privilege ppl like him sacrificed to give you. Just sad. Everyone needs to be more open minded I’m sick of all this bulllshir
View on Reddit #18469069

thegeebeebee@reddit

Explain how, since WWII, that spending as much as the next seven biggest spenders COMBINED, and killing literally millions of innocent civilians in foreign lands, have given us "freedom" or bettered our lives in any way?
View on Reddit #18469708

I_Smell_A_Rat666@reddit

How many times has the US been attacked by a foreign military since World War II?
View on Reddit #18471100

thegeebeebee@reddit

How many times have the countries that have spent a tiny fraction that we have - China, Russia, UK, Germany, France - been attacked? Plus, we are across oceans from every power. This is military-industrial-complex propaganda BS.
View on Reddit #18473129

I_Smell_A_Rat666@reddit

[Ukraine has attacked Russia a lot lately](https://www.reddit.com/r/thedavidpakmanshow/s/WMvVqorjfZ), and Russia’s military is [now 6% of their GDP](https://carnegieendowment.org/politika/90753). China has the [largest Navy in the world](https://news.usni.org/2021/11/03/china-has-worlds-largest-navy-with-355-ships-and-counting-says-pentagon), and has a [Wikipedia page](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_wars_involving_the_People's_Republic_of_China) dedicated to its battles and wars. NATO is unpopular on its subreddit, but it was designed to be a [deterrent](https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/topics_133127.htm). So that explains the countries listed in Europe.
View on Reddit #18559254

paigescactus@reddit

I’m not saying since ww2. Mainly the revolution, civil, ww1 and ww2. We remained to keep a free nation (with terms and conditions.) my main point was actually refuted by another commenter which reminds me the rich use the poor as a money raising meat grinder and we’re all mad at each other and not at the ones in charge. But at least I have freedom of speech and can say what I want without being killed or jailed. Thanks to people in the past who sacrificed their lives. I respect those who go to war and I also respect you and everyone else.
View on Reddit #18474077

markodochartaigh1@reddit

Since you are open minded, here's a short read by a Marine Major General. https://www.ratical.org/ratville/CAH/warisaracket.html
View on Reddit #18469658

paigescactus@reddit

Well add it to my existential crises. Made it to chapter two and I get your point. I’m not pro war. I’m just thankful I’m free to speak my thoughts. And maybe that wouldn’t be the case if it wasn’t for those who gave their lives in ww1 ww2 civil war and etc. I wish it was a meat grinder to raise money. I see the angle. I didn’t mean to upset anyone
View on Reddit #18473945

markodochartaigh1@reddit

I absolutely agree that we should all be free to speak our thoughts. I think that ignorance and apathy are the Achilles' heels of democracy, and not having a robust public discourse only encourages ignorance and apathy. If discussing politics was as common as discussing sports I don't think that the US would be in the mess that we are in today.
View on Reddit #18486269

exterminateThis@reddit

You must be fun at parties. You obviously understand jokes and comedy.
View on Reddit #18476317

paigescactus@reddit

I swear I responded to the wrong person, I was heated and I don’t remember getting upset about what your comment says. It doesn’t even matter I’ve been reminded that it is just a pointless meat grinder and I didn’t mean to upset anyone. Just that we shouldn’t put down those who sacrifice their lives to back their friends and families freedoms. I’m sorry to all that I came across as an ass. I guess I am getting old and mean.
View on Reddit #18478848

exterminateThis@reddit

You're welcome at my end of the world compound any time!
View on Reddit #18480313

paigescactus@reddit

Thank you I hope you/we never need it
View on Reddit #18481607

brocksamson6258@reddit

I lost brain cells reading this 2 IQ comparison between your shitty life and a veteran that got fucked by the Gov't
View on Reddit #18464412

Striking-Helicopter8@reddit

Guy chose to go into the military that’s not getting fucked by the government, any sane person knows you’re going to get fucked going to war why join if you’re not ready for the consequences?
View on Reddit #18464782

Striper_Cape@reddit

I mean, I didn't know shit at 18 lol. They didn't go "btw you'll probably get some weird cancer or illness because of the chemicals in your water, food, equipment, and clothing. Still wanna sign?" It's one thing to accept death by bullet or IED, it's another entirely to get cancer as a consequence.
View on Reddit #18465202

Grand-Leg-1130@reddit

I mean honestly this I joined during the financial crisis of 07 and 08 knowing I would get sent to Afghanistan or Iraq but I sure as hell didn’t expect I would be living downwind of a burn pit in Afghanistan, a burn pit where they burned everything from expired food to plastics to god damn metal.
View on Reddit #18465517

adminsRtransphobes@reddit

“i knew i’d be going to ruin the lives of innocent civilians but i didn’t know my life would be ruined too !!!”
View on Reddit #18466408

ashvy@reddit

em WMDs
View on Reddit #18487173

exterminateThis@reddit

I wasn't trying to one up or distract from your service. I was just making a joke about being old and sore and having to go to war now.
View on Reddit #18476955

Striking-Helicopter8@reddit

Yeah probably should have given you a safety data sheet on that one 😅
View on Reddit #18465569

Striper_Cape@reddit

Then some fucking O or Smaj or whoever would be like "nah" and you'd have to do it anyway.
View on Reddit #18465625

Striking-Helicopter8@reddit

Yeah that’s fair, but that’s just any job, I’m in sewer infrastructure and also have a bad back and respiratory issues due to concrete and gasses.
View on Reddit #18465448

SteamedQueefs@reddit

I joined because I was poor and it was my only option out of absolute poverty. Not everyone has the privilege of a choice
View on Reddit #18476055

Striking-Helicopter8@reddit

There wasn’t any shitty labour jobs anywhere? The only singular option was to join a military?
View on Reddit #18476210

SteamedQueefs@reddit

Do you know of any shitty labor jobs that offer free college and healthcare? What shitty labor jobs is willing to take a homeless 18 year old and train them up to be an engineer? Please tell me because I’ve looked back then, and the military was the only option I had.
View on Reddit #18476405

Striking-Helicopter8@reddit

I had the choice of shitty labour jobs, sounds like to me you made a choice to get free schooling by joining the military.
View on Reddit #18476537

SteamedQueefs@reddit

Well sounds like I made a good choice then didn’t I? I’ve got a masters degree now. I didn’t want to be stuck in a shitty labor job for the rest of my life, I wanted to move on up and that’s what I did. Like I said before, the only choice to get out of poverty, (not stay in poverty, or stay in a shit situation ) was to joint the military.
View on Reddit #18476703

Striking-Helicopter8@reddit

Hey man whatever helps you cope.
View on Reddit #18476767

SteamedQueefs@reddit

Lmao. Cope? Bro, you were the one busting my balls. And to be frank, sounds like you never knew what it was like to be homeless. And even if you were homeless, seems like you lived in Canada, where there’s a lot more support for poor people than there is in the US. So your argument holds no water here anyway. Enjoy your day, maybe you can find a way to cope instead of judging other peoples decisions
View on Reddit #18476896

Striking-Helicopter8@reddit

No no you just make it sound like you had zero choice to join an army? That’s called conscription? You went down to a recruiters office surrounded by thousands of hiring positions and then joined the military. That’s a choice you made. I’m not saying it’s bad! Clearly worked out for you but don’t say you didn’t have a choice like you’re in third world Africa.
View on Reddit #18477049

AngilinaB@reddit

"Third world Africa?" 🤔
View on Reddit #18479389

SteamedQueefs@reddit

Yea, I cringed at that too. The irony, though, is the poor actually have a lot more options in Africa than in the US lol
View on Reddit #18481683

SteamedQueefs@reddit

Do you know what it’s like to be a homeless child in the US? Your world completely shrinks, very similarly to those living in a “Third World” country like Africa. But unlike Africa, there are no tribes to support you, there isn’t any real infrastructure to support someone with absolutely nothing ( except for “ the funnel”.) I think you assume that the government in the US gives a shit about the homeless. I swear, that there is some sort of poverty to military funnel that happens here. If you don’t live here it may be hard to comprehend. I believe it’s one of the reasons why they are trying to do away with abortion. Unwanted children like myself get funneled into the military and/ or the prison slave complex. This probably does not exist in Canada, but the poor are treated very harshly here. Recruiters go to high schools and junior high schools and literally target the poorest as a ticket out of poverty. When you have no guidance, when you have no family that gives a shit about you, when you see the gatekeeping for all the “good “ industries, when you see that the only way out of homelessness is through jobs akin to slavery, or selling your body sexually, or ending up in prison,Then you realize the deeper darker problem that is the US. Then you realize where a lot of our military come from. Then you realize why there aren’t any real safety nets for the poor. This is by design.
View on Reddit #18477607

AngilinaB@reddit

I just wanted to say you've made your point so patiently and intelligently, I don't know why this person is so bent on pushing it and pushing it. I get it. I come from a poor area of the UK. Most of these towns have local regiments, and they start going into schools from such a young age. It normalises it, and people think "oh it won't so bad, I'll get a trade, earn some money, be out in a few years". They don't have the understanding of what it will really be like, or the privilege of feeling they have a choice. That's what the commenter doesn't seem to get - having other choices and perceiving them are two different things. I'm glad you made it out and made something of it.
View on Reddit #18479674

GrinNGrit@reddit

I totally get what you’re saying, and there’s a reality for those that choose to serve that many people don’t realize - even when you sign on the dotted line you’re not expecting to get fucked over, especially when you sign up for a relatively mundane MOS with great civilian job opportunities. The reality is “everyone is a soldier”, and sometimes you’ll do things you didn’t expect you would have to. I wonder how a lot of people would react if we had to implement a draft again. The military has its risk, and it definitely is not without controversy, but it does some good, and some good people do join. Without them, everyone would be expected to spend some time wearing a uniform.
View on Reddit #18478321

SteamedQueefs@reddit

Yeah it’s a different experience going to the recruiter’s office. Everyone is so nice, so accommodating, so helpful. They are doing everything they can to get you to sign your life away. They picked me up off the street, fed me, built me up like I was a star. Up to this point I was never treated this nicely. Most jobs in the US won’t hire you if you don’t have an address where you live. It felt like a total no-brainer to join for me, given my position. Did I have a choice to not join? Sure, then I can explore the glorious options of going to jail or becoming a hooker, or working a minimum wage job for the rest of my life.
View on Reddit #18478613

GrinNGrit@reddit

I totally get what you’re saying, and there’s a reality for those that choose to serve that many people don’t realize - even when you sign on the dotted line you’re not expecting to get fucked over, especially when you sign up for a relatively mundane MOS with great civilian job opportunities. The reality is “everyone is a soldier”, and sometimes you’ll do things you didn’t expect you would have to. I wonder how a lot of people would react if we had to implement a draft again. The military has its risk, and it definitely is not without controversy, but it does some good, and some good people do join. Without them, everyone would be expected to spend some time wearing a uniform.
View on Reddit #18478284

AngilinaB@reddit

In the UK they recruit in deprived areas and go into schools. It's not a fair informed choice.
View on Reddit #18477343

hectorxander@reddit

When I was 18 I considered joining the army, but thought that since Bush just got appointed (not elected,) that we would end up involved in wars I wouldn't agree with. Nailed it.
View on Reddit #18467204

Medical-Gear-2444@reddit

I read it like it was said in jest, sorta facetious. 
View on Reddit #18466254

GDPGDPGDPGDP@reddit

Obviously.
View on Reddit #18466171

doublefluusher@reddit

whats a burn pit
View on Reddit #18465279

CrazyShrewboy@reddit

its a pit used to dispose of all types of trash (batteries, tires, faulty munitions, jet fuel to get it going, etc, all toxic) in warzones like during the US invasion of Iraq and Afganistan. It caused a lot of soldiers to get rare cancers and other ailments.
View on Reddit #18537309

ImaginaryBig1705@reddit

It's where they burn the trash, but like tires and like heavy metals too not just regular trash. The men are in those pits breathing that air. My father in law was affected by them. You can look them up for more details on Wikipedia.
View on Reddit #18466296

AggravatingMark1367@reddit

Not to mention the regular citizens of Afghanistan who were also affected by the burn pits, and didn’t only live next to them for specific periods of time like the soldiers but lived there permanently. On top of all the other destruction the US inflicted during the invasion.
View on Reddit #18495801

StoopSign@reddit

They smoke heroin now. So do many troops but the Afghans get cheaper heroin.
View on Reddit #18515604

Boots27@reddit

Joe Biden's elder son died of a cancer he contracted from his exposure to burn pits. Rare care of the powerful coming to reap what they sow.
View on Reddit #18480119

phul_colons@reddit

that's one of those things I simply would not do, and I was an officer in the army. There were actually a lot of things I wouldn't do, and I eventually left as as conscientious objector.
View on Reddit #18472547

redditatworkatreddit@reddit

nah that's just a secondary bonus
View on Reddit #18475297

FightingIbex@reddit

All military is widespread destruction and if we didn’t have it we would be destroyed by someone else’s military. It’s a wonder this species has lasted so long.
View on Reddit #18477590

wheeldog@reddit

My dad never left the dang burn pit, was burning car batteries and all kinds of toxic shit right up to his death lol
View on Reddit #18467785

markodochartaigh1@reddit

Even President Biden's son likely contracted cancer from the burn pits. https://apnews.com/article/biden-veterans-obituaries-health-care-reform-jon-tester-cc45130782cfbf86ef29723514ce5e39
View on Reddit #18469503

Grand-Leg-1130@reddit

People can say what they want about Biden but the PACT Act was a huge win for us SWA vets, finally forced the VA to service connect my SWA related illnesses
View on Reddit #18469960

NessyComeHome@reddit

May I ask what SWA is? I tried googling it, and couldn't find an answer that seemed right.
View on Reddit #18479118

Grand-Leg-1130@reddit

The Southwest Asia theater of operations, covers a number of countries. [https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/gulfwar/military-service.asp](https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/gulfwar/military-service.asp)
View on Reddit #18479253

NessyComeHome@reddit

Kinda thought so, but figured I'd ask instead of just assuming. Thank you.
View on Reddit #18479374

MDFMK@reddit

Yep no matter where you stand politically credit do where credit is due and anything that support vets, soldiers and their support networks and access to care is a win. Lots more to do but please support those who chose to serve in all capacity’s.
View on Reddit #18473593

Grand-Leg-1130@reddit

Exactly as described, a large open air trash pit where they burned everything from food to metals to plastics to old uniforms.
View on Reddit #18466414

MelancholyWookie@reddit

Nah if shit gets bad enough everyone’s going.
View on Reddit #18475046

wwaxwork@reddit

If shit gets bad enough, the war comes to you.
View on Reddit #18512408

NoMoreUpvotesForYou@reddit

As a fellow Afghan/GWOT vet they aren't taking me alive, that's for sure.
View on Reddit #18507452

IWillBeRightHere@reddit

I'm 45 I did two tours I wish to God I never signed up. I never got seriously injured but some of the s*** I see still sticks with me to this day. It's been 16 17 years and if I close my eyes I can still find myself back there.
View on Reddit #18498707

Danstan487@reddit

Look at those getting forcibly mobilised into Ukraine's army lol No one is safe from mobilisation 
View on Reddit #18488833

Cloaked42m@reddit

VA covers that now.
View on Reddit #18482644

funkinthetrunk@reddit

I'm sorry this happened to you. I vocally opposed those wars for reasons like this.
View on Reddit #18475507

acelgoso@reddit

And that's why I don't want children of mine. The best gift I can give them is nonexistence
View on Reddit #18474586

AggravatingMark1367@reddit

That’s an excellent way to put it 
View on Reddit #18777161

BayouGal@reddit

Depopulation pogrom?
View on Reddit #18464133

MariaValkyrie@reddit

Carbon Reinitialization Program
View on Reddit #18498582

BayouGal@reddit

Soylent Green overtones...
View on Reddit #18766950

SupposedlySapiens@reddit

We sure need one
View on Reddit #18471545

AmbersandKiller@reddit

you first :)
View on Reddit #18510724

EllieBaby97420@reddit

depop speedrun any %
View on Reddit #18478704

glimmerthirsty@reddit

Why not divest from warmongering and invest in improving life?
View on Reddit #18469586

SupposedlySapiens@reddit

Because unless everyone simultaneously agrees to “divest from warmongering,” no one will
View on Reddit #18471744

glimmerthirsty@reddit

Someone has to start the trend. This is not what the population wants anywhere.
View on Reddit #18471901

SupposedlySapiens@reddit

And yet the history of human civilization is the history of war. It seems to be a necessary part of human existence.
View on Reddit #18474201

glimmerthirsty@reddit

We can change that. Resist.
View on Reddit #18755546

geghetsikgohar@reddit

How many Americans do they seriously think will willingly go the warfront for their failures?
View on Reddit #18463098

JameXt0n@reddit

As many poor and uneducated as they can help create, I suppose.
View on Reddit #18463508

StellerDay@reddit

I read that the young people are too fat, addicted, dumb, or mentally ill to make the cut now. And they weren't exactly choosy before. Decades ago the Army required an ASVAB score of 31. Out of 100.
View on Reddit #18465240

ImaginaryBig1705@reddit

You can quite literally fix that if you really want to. Take about a year to fat camp them into shape.
View on Reddit #18466381

moosekin16@reddit

Depending on how fat, it might not even take a full year! I went from 260lb to 185lb in nine months through warehouse work. I didn’t change my shit diet. I increased my daily calorie expenditure by 1100 kcals and I dropped weight *fast*. I went from a waist 42 to a waist 36 in those nine months. If anyone could turn a fat young person into a soldier within a year, the military would be the ones to do it. ‘Course, the real problem is the mental health issues. Gen Z and Alpha have extremely high rates of depression and anxiety, which might bar them from service.
View on Reddit #18472727

Cloaked42m@reddit

The irony is that the military gives you purpose, a set schedule, regular exercise, and a sense of accomplishment. All things that are really good for depression and anxiety.
View on Reddit #18483324

annethepirate@reddit

and being too stressed and worried about being disciplined will probably keep you from having time to be existential enough for depression or anxiety.
View on Reddit #18701561

Cloaked42m@reddit

Not as much anyway.
View on Reddit #18703889

Sororita@reddit

if there's a draft there will also probably be waivers for mental health issues as long as you aren't actively sucidal, and even then they might figure something out if the need is bad enough.
View on Reddit #18477218

Shot_Yak_538@reddit

Nah, let em join. What we need to win the war is a bunch of people who are just as likely to shoot themselves as they are to hit the enemy.
View on Reddit #18476218

FREE-AOL-CDS@reddit

Easiest thing to do, make it a college course credit/a nice tax deduction, maybe an easy way to get a job by taking the course, whatever, to interest as many people as possible.
View on Reddit #18485041

s0618345@reddit

I lost 45 pounds in basic in about 10 weeks. I was fat but just thin enough to pass. The army has defattening down to a science. The main issue is that when a draft comes they have ways to get you in shape and ready. I am sure about 99 percent of recruits had some sort of mental illness or at least a few screws loose.
View on Reddit #18467568

ArthurParkerhouse@reddit

They'll have liposuction stations set up next to the buzzcut stations, then people who just had mandatory 20lbs of fat removed via lipo will start bootcamp the very next day. I'd expect it to be a brutal jumpstart, but at the same time... free lipo? Not bad.
View on Reddit #18479107

CheerleaderOnDrugs@reddit

Or Uncle Sam will make a deal with a pharm company for one of their new 'miracle' weight loss shots for the recruits.
View on Reddit #18498117

Shisa4123@reddit

You'd think after all the officers that got fragged in Vietnam by disgruntled draftees, conscription would be off the table.
View on Reddit #18477639

Instant_noodlesss@reddit

None of the real decision makers will be at the front lines.
View on Reddit #18488481

s0618345@reddit

Plenty of officers were fragged with professional forces too.
View on Reddit #18477755

SnooDoubts2823@reddit

Tell me about it! I lost three inches off my waist in the first few weeks of Basic.
View on Reddit #18478174

fjf1085@reddit

Defattening lol. What an excellent word.
View on Reddit #18471092

Madness_Reigns@reddit

I saw videos of the IDF doings. We out of shape shlubs are going to fight if we get the draft.
View on Reddit #18497417

Educational-Tea-6170@reddit

The cannon fodder is being born today. They will find a way to fix those things enough to get meat to the meat grinder
View on Reddit #18468102

JameXt0n@reddit

Well, you also need to consider the environment that will be created by that point. One major problem with taking those sorts is that they are a large liability and can be quite costly for things. Say they make mistakes or get injured. You'll need to pay that in some way. But, if you degrade society in such a way to remove protections that would create those liabilities, it could be feasible. Like women's rights and child labor laws. Never did I think the United States would go backward in these regards, but they have in some ways. Who knows what can or will happen in another 20 years, though? I'll be old as heck by then.
View on Reddit #18466200

JayTheDirty@reddit

But they get free college /s
View on Reddit #18515449

Gygax_the_Goat@reddit

Bingo
View on Reddit #18471876

GrinNGrit@reddit

I get the sentiment, I do. But this is why we need to continue supporting Ukraine now, to ensure we don’t end up with another world war 10-20 years from now. Remember in WWI when the US attempted to stay out of it? Our private, civilian ships kept getting fucked with. Remember in WWII when we tried that again? Then Pearl Harbor happened. The US, despite all of its shortcomings, is still looked at as the beacon of the western world and democracy as a whole. Just because we’re over here doesn’t mean we’re safe. Much of US foreign policy has been a means to ensure the theatres of war never make it here. But if the EU falls to Russia, and Taiwan/Japan/Korea to China, there is only one holy grail left worth taking. I don’t think that Russia is a plausible threat at the moment, but the more China, North Korea, and Iran cozy up and we still haven’t put the Russian threat to rest, the greater the likelihood that we see a much stronger, more militarized Russia in the near future. And all it takes is for there to be 2 or 3 simultaneous fronts before things start looking real grim for everyone. With that said, I wish US foreign policy would take a much stronger stance on deescalation with Israel, and find ways to work with some of our historical enemies to ensure in a world war scenario, they support the west. Shit, we know how China feels about Muslims, yet there was a moment where BRICS was looked at as a serious possibility.
View on Reddit #18465706

Professional-Newt760@reddit

As someone from not the US I can assure you: LMAO that is NOT what we see the US as. It is literally viewed quite rightfully as the scourge of the earth
View on Reddit #18475732

GrinNGrit@reddit

You can disagree on a personal level, and I don’t doubt there’s a sizable anti-capitalistic movement that would agree that America has become pretty dystopian. But US adversaries don’t care, they still see this country as something that spreads dangerous democratic ideologies (hopefully that continues and we can claw back more of those values of democracy). Pro-American sentiment among people living in allied countries may be declining in some cases, but the governments are still very pro-US.
View on Reddit #18477782

trustyourrespirator@reddit

>they still see this country as something that spreads dangerous democratic ideologies And here I thought we'd all given up the "they hate us for our freedom" bit
View on Reddit #18501250

GrinNGrit@reddit

It’s not “our freedom” they hate, it’s the ability to speak and think freely, even if we are still slaves to a similar system. That fundamentally destabilizes dictatorships and results in rebellions and uprisings, for better or worse. Any country that operates with state-owned media and bans outside information is not acting in your best interest. I’d ask you for what you think the reason is that America’s top adversaries hate us so much, but I’m guessing you’re just here to jump on the anti-American bandwagon so you don’t really have an answer.
View on Reddit #18502347

trustyourrespirator@reddit

>. I’d ask you for what you think the reason is that America’s top adversaries hate us so much, I mean right now we are backing a genocide, but we have backed many in our history. For all the foreign meddling it is claimed Russia and China do, we have done 10x as much to prevent the spread of Communism, and despite your claim that we have a free press, the wealthy owners of our media are the same people that own our politicians and their goals and opinions always seem to be in lockstep. They don't hate us because we are free. they hate us because we are the villains
View on Reddit #18502491

GrinNGrit@reddit

Who is “we”? Do you back genocide? Do I? Do many of those in Congress? Hell, even Biden, as weak as he is, has started pressuring Israel. 49% of the Jewish population in the world lives in Israel, another 49% in the US, and the remaining 2% is spread across everywhere else. That is the only reason the US has been so aligned with Israeli interests (and why they have been so willing to align with ours). There is a ton of money in that relationship, and it runs deep, but for every person crying about the minimal suffering Israel saw, there is someone else shouting that the US supports genocide. The US, on the whole, does not support genocide, but there are factions within the US that are legitimately unable to separate out the need of humane response for Palestinians while continuing to support and protect Israel. Some people just can’t see it any other way than an all-or-nothing issue. It’s ridiculous, but also don’t think that this is a normal and standard American belief. The boomer generation still has a stranglehold on American power, and these are the people that still think that the Red Scare is a real threat. They’re thinking that the holocaust was yesterday so Jewish people can do no harm. And they also have been on a prosperity high since they were born, and now that they see things falling apart they’re panicking and looking for someone or something to blame. There has been a fundamental shift in sentiment over the last decade, accelerated and extremified by DJT, but there is a rather large movement of people who are grounded in reality that are slowly permeating the industry and government who actually have a vision for a better America. Now isn’t the time to abandon the country, it’s a time to continue speaking up about what’s right and fighting for leaders that better represent us so the next time someone asks you what America represents, you have something positive to say. We all get maybe 80 years on this planet, don’t spend it running from your home, clean it up, make it better, and hope that the next generation gets a better shot.
View on Reddit #18502989

geghetsikgohar@reddit

The US is built on the unprecedented military conquest and ethnic/cultural erasure of native peoples. Liberals thinking they can justify this as some form of progress is pf course ridiculous and I can't even have the discussion it's so ridiculous. Failed Europeans killing natives because they can't get along in their home in Europe
View on Reddit #18544400

Professional-Newt760@reddit

This is such an American response: it’s not about what you view yourselves as, it’s about what you are doing and have *always* done to the rest of the world in the name of capitalist, imperial hegemony. Governments may align due to purely transactional relationships, but I can assure you, the citizens of the world hate the US. It DOES spread dangerous ideologies and absolutely none of them are democratic. It is delusional to think this. A cursory glance at the damage the CIA has inflicted on the globe evidences otherwise.
View on Reddit #18482904

GrinNGrit@reddit

If that is your takeaway on America, then you clearly do not understand how complex the systems that govern it can be. We’re on the cusp of another civil war to ensure there is still a democracy left. There is a very real movement heavily influenced by Russia and China to destroy democracy in America forever. The people in this country have lost access to determine our laws and leaders, but that has not been a collaborative movement from those at the top. There are many great leaders sticking their necks out to drive positive change. The CIA does not run America, it exists outside of America, without legitimate oversight. It’s a pet that has gone wild and cannot be controlled. That’s not American policy but rather a design failure and an unsurprising symptom of the military industrial complex that Eisenhower warned us about 60 years ago. Prior to 1970, America was no worse than any Western European nation, capitalism and all. Power shifted hands away from the people, however, and it has been a battle to claw it back.
View on Reddit #18499129

salfkvoje@reddit

> The US, despite all of its shortcomings, is still looked at as the beacon of the western world and democracy as a whole. I mean... Not really
View on Reddit #18466204

GrinNGrit@reddit

Whether or not it’s true is a different story, but seriously name a country that China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea hate more.
View on Reddit #18466402

ArthurParkerhouse@reddit

I'm down with Mainland China. Seems really nice over there.
View on Reddit #18479868

GrinNGrit@reddit

https://aqicn.org/map/china/ Bring your gas mask.
View on Reddit #18480551

ArthurParkerhouse@reddit

Impressive! They've drastically improved their air quality in just the last decade.
View on Reddit #18487003

dabillinator@reddit

You could probably add another 100 nations to your list. The US picked up where most of Europe left off in regards to sabotaging other nations for their own gain.
View on Reddit #18470095

GrinNGrit@reddit

The US willingly has countries coming to them asking for protection. China, meanwhile, is off colonizing Africa. There have been bad actors with nefarious intent that got us into places we should have never been, I’d consider Iraq/Afghanistan as our last colonization campaign. But on the whole, US adversaries have much looser moral compasses and much greater appetite for imperialist behavior.
View on Reddit #18471336

wrecktimsrectum@reddit

> The US willingly has countries coming to them asking for protection. Well no shit, if you are hiring someone for protection you want to hire the best guy.
View on Reddit #18471944

RETARDED1414@reddit

I will not wreck Tim's rectum.
View on Reddit #18472785

collapse-ModTeam@reddit

Hi, RETARDED1414. Thanks for contributing. However, your [comment](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/comments/19bihj7/-/kispm8g/) was removed from /r/collapse for: > Rule 1: In addition to enforcing [Reddit's content policy](https://www.redditinc.com/policies/content-policy), we will also remove comments and content that is abusive or predatory in nature. You may attack each other's ideas, not each other. Please refer to our [subreddit rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/about/rules/) for more information. You can [message the mods](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose/?to=/r/collapse) if you feel this was in error, please include a link to the comment or post in question.
View on Reddit #18480024

Professional-Newt760@reddit

As someone from not the US I can assure you: LMAO that is NOT what we see the US as. It is literally viewed quite rightfully as the scourge of the earth
View on Reddit #18475691

thadiusb@reddit

I still have yet to see any proof whatsoever that Putin wants to take more than Eastern Ukraine, which is btw, predominantly Russian speaking people. There is absolutely no other reason for Putin to continue moving west. WWIII will be the cause of America, not Russia.
View on Reddit #18473283

collapse-ModTeam@reddit

Hi, thadiusb. Thanks for contributing. However, your [comment](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/comments/19bihj7/-/kisr3oj/) was removed from /r/collapse for: > Rule 4: Keep information quality high. > Information quality must be kept high. More detailed information regarding our approaches to specific claims can be found on the [Misinformation & False Claims page](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/wiki/claims). Please refer to our [subreddit rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/about/rules/) for more information. You can [message the mods](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose/?to=/r/collapse) if you feel this was in error, please include a link to the comment or post in question.
View on Reddit #18480086

Low-Wolverine2941@reddit

Russia is a US colony. A completely backward colony with a very weak army and economy. Raw material appendage. China is ten times stronger.
View on Reddit #18468731

GrinNGrit@reddit

Spoken like someone that knows nothing about the US military or the capabilities of its adversaries. You’re just pushing Chinese propaganda. There are cracks in the seams in several aspects of the US economy, and the military has retention issues. But the Chinese military is nowhere near ready. Based on their own development timeline, they’re still 20 years away from being a top military power, and they are entirely untested in a real war. Their Temu-sourced warships and Wish-procured tanks look powerful, but were built for mass production, for show. There is no decades of experience to train the next generation on strategy or the proper use. China is just a bunch of kids with guns that will panic when they see the atrocities of war for the first time. Most of the country is in their most prosperous time of their lives, you think they’re going to want to leave that behind for an austere hellscape? They may have the US beat on numbers, but that’s easy to do when service is mandatory. They’ll walk into the meat grinder for months until they’ve learned enough the hard way how to fight a sustainable war, but by then the damage will be done. The US, despite all of our shortcomings, still outspend any country on the planet to develop technology that, even when 20 years old, smacks Russia’s equipment in the face. There are parts of the US that *wants* to be a Russian colony (namely the far-right, Trump supporters), but rest assured, a majority dislikes that idea. Our military is as hungry as ever to keep increasing spending to boost the Ukraine war effort, because while we’re sending our last-gen tech overseas, we can keep building next-gen weaponry that will melt faces in our next involvement. And the US isn’t alone. We need our partnerships with NATO and democracies in the Pacific, like Japan, Australia, Korea, and hopefully Taiwan.
View on Reddit #18470275

theguyfromgermany@reddit

I think the main weakness of USA is not Hardware but the health and fitness of its people. I read that something like half of the population is unfit for the military and that number is going up.
View on Reddit #18473724

GrinNGrit@reddit

Obesity is an issue, no doubt, and people are getting fatter. But ironically it’s the military’s own regulations that’s disqualifying people at a higher rate. As states increasingly legalize certain drugs and people continue to take better care of their mental health, more people are becoming immediately disqualified. Then comes the Army’s implementation of Genesis, which on paper sounds like a good thing - scrape all medical history of every candidate for disqualifiers - people with old issues like childhood asthma, or people who sought help for depression once years ago are also flagged for disqualification. Not to mention the archaic height/weight measurement system used to qualify people’s fitness. Doesn’t matter how well you perform, if you weigh more than the standards say your height should allow, you get taped to see if the size of certain body features puts your estimated BMI within the threshold. For men, they measure two parts, your belly and your neck. Not exactly scientific.
View on Reddit #18477560

Low-Wolverine2941@reddit

I meant that China is much stronger than Russia. The US, in turn, is much stronger than China. And Russia is not even a regional power.
View on Reddit #18471626

Zestyclose-Ad-9420@reddit

you dont know your history and it shows.
View on Reddit #18476872

Soma1a_a1@reddit

> Remember in WWI when the US attempted to stay out of it? Our private, civilian ships kept getting fucked with. Remember in WWII when we tried that again? Then Pearl Harbor happened. Your definition of "staying out of it" is suspect. American finance loaned the Allies ~7 billion dollars that included both capital and finished goods in WW1 while the Central powers barely got anything. One of the reasons America joined was to ensure Britain and France would be able to pay these debts. In WW2, the oil embargo was the main impetus of Pearl Harbor, but also the fact that America controlled the Philippines as a colonial possession as well as many other Pacific islands. "staying out of it" does not mean "Just don't directly declare war." It also means not favoring either side, which the US never did.
View on Reddit #18470940

GrinNGrit@reddit

I’m not sure if “suspect” is the right word to use. I definitely oversimplified, but the fact remains, the US did not seek direct engagement in either war. I’d argue we used the same playbook we’re using now. Let folks fight it out and hope it all blows over in our favor, but fuck with us and find out what happens. Except this time we fostered strong relationships that in previous world wars we had no obligation to defend. So we’re feeding resources to Ukraine, Poland, Germany, and other countries in hopes that the message gets across that while we don’t want to put boots on ground, we’re quite unhappy with Putin. Russia isn’t threatened by the EU, it’s threatened by the US. It’s the only reason they haven’t escalated. Likewise with Taiwan. If we didn’t exist, Taiwan would be China. Yet we have enough influence to effectively ban the legal sale of an entire generation of computer processor technology. No country in the world operates without personal interest, and that has absolutely been a factor in the US’s foreign policy. But when the way of life for everyone becomes threatened, things stop being quite so transactional. These days the US is way too happy to donate funds to our allies with nothing in return if it means it keeps us from having to fight their wars.
View on Reddit #18470941

imminentjogger5@reddit

nah
View on Reddit #18466303

Madness_Reigns@reddit

You heard of Iraq? Vietnam? We did it for far less out of pure ideology. Propagandize the enemy as woke or wathever's popular in the culture war and you won't be short of volunteers.
View on Reddit #18497371

Taxtaxtaxtothemax@reddit

I’d fight for a revolution before I’d fight anything for NATO.
View on Reddit #18464176

_rihter@reddit

Putin is betting the house on that.
View on Reddit #18467392

Kittehmilk@reddit

Shhh be quiet Liberal. There are so very few of you, which seems like a bad situation if stuff actually goes down.
View on Reddit #18480148

ClassWarAndPuppies@reddit

Here come the fucking liberals. Yeah man, Putin, specifically, is uniquely a bad and evil guy who’s a maniac, not a rational actor securing his interests and those of the ruling class he serves. I’m sure all the very smart people at MSNBC have taught you what to believe very well. I’m sure worshipping NATO, an organization made up of Nazis (including literal ones!) is the way to go 🤓
View on Reddit #18472861

Taxtaxtaxtothemax@reddit

Put a sock in it. My government is more my enemy than Putin will ever be. I know who is oppressing me and wrecking things over here, and it sure as sh*t isn’t Putin.
View on Reddit #18468663

wheeldog@reddit

Good!
View on Reddit #18468002

Kittehmilk@reddit

Same. The parasite class wants us to fight? Ok, we can fight them instead.
View on Reddit #18480107

ClassWarAndPuppies@reddit

Same.
View on Reddit #18472746

justincasewelcome@reddit

Word!
View on Reddit #18468691

selflessGene@reddit

I don't understand this comment. Many Americans went to Iraq for less justifiable reasons.
View on Reddit #18473258

zapembarcodes@reddit

They already managed to brainwash several hundreds to voluntarily go fight in Ukraine.
View on Reddit #18470746

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

When the government tell you to murder strangers, its better to just go to prison for not killing anyone.
View on Reddit #18466558

RogueVert@reddit

Ali - [I don’t have no personal quarrel with those Vietcongs](https://slate.com/culture/2016/06/did-muhammad-ali-ever-say-no-viet-cong-ever-called-me-nigger.html) According to Robert Lipsyte, who was at the house reporting a feature for the New York Times, the boxer’s immediate response was more selfishly personal than defiantly political. “Why me?” Lipsyte quoted Ali as saying in the Times the next day. “I can’t understand it. How did they do this to me—the heavyweight champion of the world?” As the news spread, reporters arrived in waves, and neighbors and passers-by did too, asking question after question, for hours. Ali answered them all. He said, “How can they do this without another test to see if I’m any wiser or worser than the last time?” (Ali in 1964 twice failed an Army pre-induction mental aptitude test.) He wondered why the U.S. government was “gunning” for him. He suggested that officials were biased against his Muslim faith. “I’m fighting for the government every day,” Ali said. “I think it costs them $12 million a day to stay in Vietnam and I buy a lot of bullets, at least three jet bombers a year, and pay the salary of 50,000 fighting men with the money they take from me after my fights.” “He eventually subsided,” Lipsyte wrote in a May 1967 profile in the New York Times Magazine, “and questioners pressed, asking Ali about Vietnam. He admitted that he wasn’t sure where Vietnam was. They asked him about the Vietcong. He shrugged. ‘I got no quarrel with them Vietcong.’ ” Lipsyte didn’t include the quotation in his deadline story; spoken half-heartedly by a weary Ali after all those hours of talking, it didn’t instantly resonate. (Lipsyte has said he just blew it.) But the quote, or a version of it, was picked up by other reporters. “I am a member of the Black Muslims, and we don’t go to no wars unless they’re declared by Allah himself,” the Associated Press quoted Ali as saying. “I don’t have no personal quarrel with those Vietcongs.’ ” In an AP dispatch a week later, it was “Vietcong” singular.
View on Reddit #18469967

RageAgainstThe@reddit

Conscript recruiters are gonna run into booby trapped neighborhoods, or just simply get shot on sight by people. Fuck that I'm not destroying my body and possibly dying for rich cunts.
View on Reddit #18467358

imminentjogger5@reddit

hard pass for me
View on Reddit #18466328

zvon2000@reddit

This entire article as well as most comments about it is utterly laughable. Russia in 20 years time?? At the rate shit is going down in Russia today, They won't even exist 20 years from now! Russia's economy is on the verge of collapse, Its entire military has been brought to its knees from fighting 1 single non-NATO country, There are open threats and stoking fires of civil unrest and revolution happening all over the country RIGHT NOW, What possible threat to the entire NATO conglomerate could Russia possibly be? Less than a month after a possible Article 5 decree, Moscow will look like Mariupol FFS !
View on Reddit #18492299

Imgoga@reddit

Yeah this sub is full of tankies and CCP bots. Glad that most people in real world aren't as dumb as r/collapse rats
View on Reddit #18693767

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

Glad Im in South Africa. Nobody cares about us and we're too broke to fight. Conscription would just end up with a bunch of guys at a run down military base going "wat de fok nou?"
View on Reddit #18466417

obrla@reddit

It used to be like that for us here in Brazil... now the UK literally threatened us this does not spark joy
View on Reddit #18602702

LuciferianInk@reddit

I'm in the UK too, but I'm not a fan of the UK either
View on Reddit #18602954

obrla@reddit

If we meet in the battlefield well shoot eachother's foot to go home ok?
View on Reddit #18609617

SQL_INVICTUS@reddit

Aren't you guys poking Israël at the moment? Might end up making some people care
View on Reddit #18508379

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

If Israel is found not-guilty of genocide, they can continue bombing any civilian target they want under banner of Self Defence. This case could be very beneficial to Israel for all future action. They will just refer any claim of genocide back to the case's outcome. Wonder what influence Israel, US and allies have on those that are ruling on this.
View on Reddit #18512525

theCaitiff@reddit

The US is not a party to the ICC, we didn't sign the treaty because we didn't want to give the court legitimacy in case any of ours ended up on the docket. In fact, back in 2002 Dubya signed the Hague Invasion Act that pre-authorizes the president to use military force to retrieve any US politician who might be accused of war crimes. For the US to try to influence the ICC, we'd first have to admit it was a legitimate body and we aren't about to do that.
View on Reddit #18583800

KiaRioGrl@reddit

I mean, seven different countries in a variety of global locales are poking Israel at the ICJ over a variety of war crimes. South Africa is just the closest, the first, and probably the most publicized.
View on Reddit #18509821

juflyingwild@reddit

it's already up to 7 ?
View on Reddit #18520997

KiaRioGrl@reddit

Not actually filed, but just like there was a build up of rumour about South Africa bringing the charge of genocide for a week or two in advance I am now hearing that a bunch of other countries are exploring bringing charges (other than genocide) under the laws of war. I can't find the list again, but it included Venezuela, and there were at least a few others. I may have exaggerated by saying 7, but it's looking like it will be at least 4 or 5 before too long.
View on Reddit #18561980

Ferglesplat@reddit

It's voting year so the government is trying to get the muslim votes because this year is the closest we have come to removing them from having a majority.
View on Reddit #18509832

AlphaStark08@reddit

Lmao benefits of living in a third world country, nobody cares about us
View on Reddit #18524316

jesusleftnipple@reddit

Indians from ww1 say hello
View on Reddit #18517207

Gygax_the_Goat@reddit

Thanks for the chuckle this morning. I need it. Take care cousin!
View on Reddit #18472505

PermieCulture@reddit

Somebody recommended I read " Tropic of Chaos" and it is eye opening to say the least. War is the weapon of the elites so we'll be seeing so much more of it as they cling to power and resource control. Not ideal if you're a lover and not a fighter.
View on Reddit #18605192

obrla@reddit

good luck getting me to fight a war, I'll wait for the nukes at home, thank you very much
View on Reddit #18602620

atf_shot_my_dog_@reddit

If Western countries try to enforce conscription, there will be societal collapse in those places.
View on Reddit #18598337

GizmoCaCa-78@reddit

Conscript deez nutz! Imagine being drafted by a government that has ignored you and racked up 34 trillion in debt to private bankers! Nope
View on Reddit #18589118

throwsydrowsy@reddit

how are you even supposed to prepare on a personal level?
View on Reddit #18588233

IWantToSortMyFeed@reddit

I go out on my terms.
View on Reddit #18464410

West_Mail4807@reddit

Right. Good luck with that. In all out war your 'terms' will probably get you lined up against a wall or the edge of a pit waiting for a 'bang'.
View on Reddit #18574644

theCaitiff@reddit

Likely won't even make it that far honestly, but at least he wont have to serve an imperial army.
View on Reddit #18584745

Unlucky-Situation-98@reddit

Amen brother
View on Reddit #18498655

Post_Base@reddit

I think the collective West is in hysteria mode regarding the current major conflicts. It’s very odd how war-mongering NATO has gotten in broad daylight. Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas are regional conflicts and have nothing to do with us if we don’t stick our noses in. However NATO insists on getting involved in as many ways as they can; that’s their problem. Russia, China, The ME, North Korea, Iran. Just leave those people alone man, leave them alone? They are not some comical supervillain trying to conquer the world. If their antics ever have a direct clear violent effect on the West then we can talk. But what is NATO afraid of now? That they are falling behind economically and societally? That is an internal problem. It won’t be solved by scapegoating external parties and I’m not going to go to war when I see how well our system works for it’s people every day as I drive by the homeless people downtown or hear about people afraid to visit a doctor because of insurance copayments. Let’s fix our shit first, then we can talk.
View on Reddit #18470542

WorldsLargestAmoeba@reddit

It is perhaps to take over the vast areas and resources that Russia has. Just like Iraq. There are no wars for ideological reasons or democracy or to protect the population. If that were the case it would be a completely other batch of countries that was being attacked. That people still believe this "we good, they bad" propaganda is ridiculous.
View on Reddit #18581913

Brilliant-Rough8239@reddit

NATO exists to rule the world, hence why they're finally pushing towards a suicidal war with almost the entire world simultaneously
View on Reddit #18512151

stampido@reddit

Uh oh, 2024 is surely not disappointing so far. But more on a serious note...what the actual fuck? I'm not about to throw my life up for some old fucker in a suit, thanks.
View on Reddit #18462392

Intelligent-Emu-3947@reddit

I’ll burn my draft card. Fuck your war.
View on Reddit #18464006

60percentofmensingle@reddit

I mean even if you do get drafted they can't make you kill or kill who they want
View on Reddit #18468309

West_Mail4807@reddit

They don't usually want women and children killed, is that who you are gunning for?
View on Reddit #18575225

Throwawayuser626@reddit

It’s funny, anyone I’ve known personally who served at some point left feeling very anti-war. Not even the enlisted believe in the draft half the time.
View on Reddit #18542368

Acantezoul@reddit

No burn the old suits for trying to send people in just for them to live comfy. We all send those old farts and assholes in first
View on Reddit #18505961

Emotional-Catch-2883@reddit

Something tells me "within the next twenty years" is code for a much shorter time than they want to admit.
View on Reddit #18465096

Seeeab@reddit

This summer Also summer starts in spring now
View on Reddit #18473320

StarstruckEchoid@reddit

Venus by Tuesday! (As in, Venus will join in on the hostilities by then.)
View on Reddit #18500263

Sororita@reddit

It's like how every climate metric is "changing faster than anticipated" it's because they didn't want to believe how bad it was and the bias skewed their estimates.
View on Reddit #18477480

Druzhyna@reddit

I just released from the military. As early as 2018, Commissioned Officers were telling us that “the next big war” with Russia and China was on the horizon. In November 2021, me and my friends were told that the Russian invasion was imminent. None of this information was passed down in a special way, and nor was it classified. These were just regular conversations and after-training talks. I’ve heard other things, as well, but I won’t be repeating them here. Just recently, a British politician announced that there’d be a deployment to Ukraine in 2025. However, this was later recanted. But personally, I can see that potentially happening. All I can say is that the stage of war has been getting set for years. Those of us in the know have been hearing about it for over half a decade already.
View on Reddit #18476734

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

Yeah, frog in water statement
View on Reddit #18466693

Intelligent-Emu-3947@reddit

Actually surprised people saw one of my comments, I assumed I was shadowbanned for the longest time. But correct, these warmongers are itching to start ASAP
View on Reddit #18465244

CultivatingMagic@reddit

My personal bugout plan is centered around this. Fuck your war, and fuck prison. I’d rather die from the elements than kill another conscript or get my ass shanked in prison.
View on Reddit #18467685

thelastofthebastion@reddit

> I’d rather die from the elements than kill another conscript or get my ass shanked in prison. Ehhh.. freezing to death is brutal.. I don't think I could willingly consign myself to that fate. I honestly think a mutual murder-suicide would be better,
View on Reddit #18487904

CultivatingMagic@reddit

That’s the move 🤫
View on Reddit #18489482

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

Yeah, dont get conscripted. Modern warfare is quick and brutal.
View on Reddit #18466665

lonestoner90@reddit

I’ll leave or die trying fuck that
View on Reddit #18466094

Street_Review450@reddit

Nah I'm not fighting for y'all after seeing how you treat the planet and the less fortunate. Go ahead and lock me up or kill me or whatever. I'll never fight for you.
View on Reddit #18464577

Yongaia@reddit

Same. Would be in chains long before I fought for this empire. This planet will take care of these evil predatory scum all the same.
View on Reddit #18468399

JayTheDirty@reddit

My WW2 veteran grandfather who fought in the South Pacific told me he’d get me to Canada if another draft was ever started. He knew.
View on Reddit #18515345

West_Mail4807@reddit

Canada was already fighting the war, how did think that would help him? (unless simply by hiding in Canada)
View on Reddit #18574787

GentleHawk1@reddit

Canada is dangerous, better to take refuge in a non-NATO country.
View on Reddit #18569274

Acantezoul@reddit

No if it ever comes down to it fight those empire bastards. Don't let them take you hostage. Take them with you. It's because of them that most of us have to live more shitty lives overtime. I'm surprised operations haven't started to take them out. There's many qualified military and ex-military
View on Reddit #18505574

Throwawayuser626@reddit

This generation is probably the least patriotic and least likely to willingly just go to war. I wonder, what happens if too many people fight back and refuse even with a draft?
View on Reddit #18542106

ProfessorStrawbs@reddit

Same! Totally put me in prison or out of my misery but I will never fight for this country or its values
View on Reddit #18516336

fucuasshole2@reddit

Same, I might join just to sabotage efforts but if someone got killed due to my sabotage I’ll feel terrible. Best thing to probably do is say no
View on Reddit #18515931

Professional_Code372@reddit

They’re probably waiting for the dumber generations to grow older. I’m a high school teacher , many of my current students would make great soldiers.
View on Reddit #18513998

AggravatingMark1367@reddit

I’d only comply with conscription if it was to defend the country against invasion, not if it was to be part of an invading force people from some other country need to defend themselves from.
View on Reddit #18495892

LuciferianInk@reddit

I don't know how you feel about me, but I'm not against you. I just don't want you to get hurt.
View on Reddit #18464828

StellerDay@reddit

You're sweet.
View on Reddit #18465364

holmiez@reddit

They threatened we'd be replaced by AI, why are they threatening to conscript us now?
View on Reddit #18464511

Iloveshrekbeemovie@reddit

war is to solve overpopulation
View on Reddit #18486413

West_Mail4807@reddit

Well, overpopulation is the cause of 'climate change' (or indeed just the problem itself). A big war will bring desired results. Cynics will say the pandemic plan didn't go according to plan, so it's on to Plan B...
View on Reddit #18574732

Post_Base@reddit

This. We are simply witnessing yet another attempt at warmongering and we have to do our best to identify it and resist it.
View on Reddit #18470767

Acantezoul@reddit

Taking them out is the only way. Why should we be the ones that have to go. It makes no sense.
View on Reddit #18505717

PrairieFire_withwind@reddit

War is because you have been replaced by AI.  Gotta do something with the extras.
View on Reddit #18466944

redditmodsRrussians@reddit

Its what happened to all the people who came off the farms during the last industrialization period. We are in the AIndustrialization period now so the rich are gonna try to use another armed conflict to burn a few billion people off the planet so they can keep the loot without sharing it.
View on Reddit #18478815

Acantezoul@reddit

Those few billion people will take out every single one of those monsters that ruin it for everyone before they let them do that to them
View on Reddit #18505658

NICK16_06@reddit

>Its what happened to all the people who came off the farms during the last industrialization period. Could you please elaborate and/or provide any source for this? I hadn't heard of it before and I find it absolutely fascinating.
View on Reddit #18488769

redditmodsRrussians@reddit

There is no one easy source as its more of a college level Western Civ multi semester kinda of topic. The period you are looking for usually starts around the time the US fought its civil war and the continental Europe is nearing the apex of its colonial powers all the way up to WWI where things kinda get really out of hand. Most Western Civ professors will tell you that WWI and WWII are really just one long drawn out conflict with a brief rest in between. What we are witnessing today is similar in wherein major imperialist powers are kind of eating themselves now trying to maintain control and the policies that got them where they are today are coming undone.
View on Reddit #18492737

ohfml@reddit

I joked once about the coming mass layoffs caused by AI, >"It will be fine! It will be just like the automobile revolution. As we know, when the car was first introduced, it freed up all of the millions of horses to chase their dreams and passions... >Just kidding, they all died in World War 1. "
View on Reddit #18493576

RichieLT@reddit

Eaten and worked to death 🙁
View on Reddit #18497090

Instant_noodlesss@reddit

Yep. Can't send them to the new continent anymore, so send them against one another to die is the next best bet. Kill the excess poors, keep a few maintenance middle class, environmental impact slightly lessened, and the people sending others to die get to live in comfort for a few more years.
View on Reddit #18488375

tekmaster2020@reddit

At this point I think world leaders recognize we *need* a war or something, anything that will thin out the world population since they do plan to replace most of us with AI/robots and they don’t want to deal with billions of unemployable (useless) people.
View on Reddit #18466449

AbigailJefferson1776@reddit

Never ending wars. Great.
View on Reddit #18568358

BonniestLad@reddit

When was the last time we weren’t in danger of entering into a life changing conflict? ….let alone “in the next 20 years”
View on Reddit #18564457

pisandwich@reddit

I get the need to prepare, but the idea that Russia could sustain a conventional conflict against Europe/NATO is just laughable. They can't even push past determined Ukrainians with some NATO leftover hardware. The only threat Russia presents to Europe is nuclear, and once the nukes fly, conventional war will be pointless.
View on Reddit #18556907

HulkSmashHulkRegret@reddit

IMO it’s pretty clear the motivation is Europe looking east at Putin looking like a mangled terminator crawling at them, then looking west at the prospect of a Project 2025 US, where not only would they be without US military help but might also have to fend it off. If/when the US goes rogue, the rest of the west will be all the help they can get, hence doing this through NATO rather than the EU, as it ropes in the UK
View on Reddit #18466502

Mysterious_Donut_702@reddit

> not only would they be without US military help but might also have to fend it off Nonsense. A Project 2025 US would be staunchly isolationist and stuck dealing with all sorts of political infighting. We might not be the most dependable ally, but I absolutely don't see us helping Russia or in any way becoming a threat to our European friends.
View on Reddit #18544404

Brilliant-Rough8239@reddit

Europe, that's banning hijabs and making it illegal to be Muslim, are definitely the victims here, yep. Europeans are the world's greatest victims, victims of evil Americans and evil Russians, hence why they need to go Fourth Reich in real time for the whole world to see.
View on Reddit #18512292

-Planet-@reddit

I ain't fighting for these shitlords.
View on Reddit #18539529

TheNigh7man@reddit

Meh I'm not sure I'll be around in 20 years thanks to climate change and our inability to deal with the current health crisis.
View on Reddit #18535705

EffenNuts@reddit

There will be wars as long as there is blood left to spill & as long as people fail to realize that I'm always right. ;-) Always remember to vote against your best interest.
View on Reddit #18535171

Xilopa@reddit

It will sadly be a lot sooner than in 20 years. This is Putin working hard for his legacy. He is 71 years of age now, which means he will die within 10-15 years most likely. He has been preparing for this the last 15 years. *(10 years since Crimea)* US Republicans will continue to prevent the aid to Ukraine during the year. Making it harder for Ukraine to fend off the Russians and at the same time depleting Europes stockpiles at an ever-increasing pace. After US election Putin will either get a **green** or **red** light to start or prevent his invasion of the Baltic States. If Trump wins Russia has 4 years to begin their offensive against the Baltic States. The Baltics are extremely hard to defend without the territory of Sweden, which is not yet an Article 5 country (but hopefully soon). When the US is not contributing, the European States will have to recalculate how they are going to use their own stockpiles more efficiently. As well as how to ramp up ammunition production far away from the upcoming frontlines in such a scenario. Russia is currently producing enormous volumes of ammunition as well as purchasing from several other countries. Sadly, as Zelensky said himself.. it's going to be very hard for Ukraine to fight Russia without the support of USA. Which means that the current war economy in Russia is aimed at a larger goal, not just Ukraine. The **Suwałki gap** and the Baltics will be a huge part of this conflict the upcoming years. It is all very horrifying. Europe will never forget this. ​ >"The release of the terrifying documents come just days after Sweden's civil defence minister warned that his country could soon face the prospect of war and urged citizens to join voluntary defence organisations in preparation for a Russian attack. And Germany's defence leaders are also taking the threat from Moscow seriously, with the Bundeswehr preparing for a hybrid Russian attack on NATO's eastern flank by the summer of 2025. The secret 'Alliance Defence 2025' document details how Russia will mobilise another 200,000 soldiers in Russia before launching a spring offensive against Ukrainian forces in Spring this year. " - Daily Mail Source: [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12964575/Germany-preparing-Putin-attack-against-NATO-2025-Leaked-secret-plans-reveal-step-step-Russia-escalate-conflict-war-18-months.html](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12964575/Germany-preparing-Putin-attack-against-NATO-2025-Leaked-secret-plans-reveal-step-step-Russia-escalate-conflict-war-18-months.html) ​ **Good reads:** [https://www.euronews.com/2024/01/16/germany-lays-out-exercise-scenario-for-a-potential-conflict-between-nato-and-russia](https://www.euronews.com/2024/01/16/germany-lays-out-exercise-scenario-for-a-potential-conflict-between-nato-and-russia) [https://www.politico.eu/article/vladimir-putin-russia-germany-boris-pistorius-nato/](https://www.politico.eu/article/vladimir-putin-russia-germany-boris-pistorius-nato/)
View on Reddit #18496440

Eatpineapplenow@reddit

Thank you. Very, very sober take. If anyone wants to know what a war with Russia could look like read this: [https://twitter.com/FRHoffmann1/status/1746589423251403236](https://twitter.com/FRHoffmann1/status/1746589423251403236) TLDR: We should prepare for a war that does not look like conventional warfare(like in Ukraine), but rather a war where Russia is trying to fight us "asymmetrical": blitz occupation, infrastructure. We have 2-3 years to prepare
View on Reddit #18535163

saopaulodreaming@reddit

Why you so alarmist? You sound like those pesky scientists circa 2010 who said that one day a major pandemic would break out in the world. Get back to work.
View on Reddit #18462840

tekmaster2020@reddit

Honestly we got lucky with that one… sure we got a pandemic but it could have been much worse that it was/is. The bad part is we have proven we are incapable of dealing with a pandemic so when one shows up that’s deadlier and more infectious we will be fucked.
View on Reddit #18466324

baconraygun@reddit

It may still prove to be much worse down the road with mass disability, immune dysfunction, and organ damage.
View on Reddit #18471952

Chaos_cassandra@reddit

Yeah it ain’t over yet. I also learned that >50% of the nurses at my health system are contract/agency nurses instead of staff nurses that actually work for the health system. Covid ravaged the health system, and I guess we’re just not talking about it?
View on Reddit #18497330

yawaworht_stoab@reddit

Nursing [https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/CEU6562300001](https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/CEU6562300001) has struggled to keep up with population growth [https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/POPTOTUSA647NWDB](https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/POPTOTUSA647NWDB) Similar issues in other industries: [https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/USCONS](https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/USCONS) I haven't seen any studies yet but I'd wager the pandemic coinciding with boomer retirements is doing a number on industry knowledge drain too
View on Reddit #18534945

ideknem0ar@reddit

This. I don't think the majority of people realize just how much the healthcare system is on life support. I've been reconciling myself to the eventual reality of dying from something simple like an infected toenail,  just like in the old days.
View on Reddit #18508266

CRTsdidnothingwrong@reddit

And yet we still can't get a consensus to stop scientists from enhancing viruses and training them on humanized mice.
View on Reddit #18469034

Enkaybee@reddit

“We are ending the era of endless wars. It is not the job of American forces to solve ancient conflicts in faraway lands that many people have not even heard of." Guess who said it!
View on Reddit #18483024

Xilopa@reddit

Republicans are only aware of Murica, Afghanistan & China.
View on Reddit #18534305

Psychological-Sport1@reddit

I long as I get issued a personal nuke and/or biological weapon, I won’t feel that I am prepared for any possible contingency should an enemy appear before me /s. !!!
View on Reddit #18534212

SaltyPeasant@reddit

A lot of folks would rather fight the government than fight for it.
View on Reddit #18465511

dragazoid66@reddit

If so, why isn’t there a lot of people fighting against the government right now? The internet and Reddit isn’t the majority. I believe that people will either fight for it or against it, not more than the other.
View on Reddit #18531282

Conclavicus@reddit

Yea no shit, i’ve been feeling and thinking this for years, since university.
View on Reddit #18528297

justsomerandomdude10@reddit

This statement really deserves some explanation: "The Foreign Secretary urged Britain’s allies not to push for peace talks between Kyiv and Moscow, arguing that unifying behind Ukraine was the best way to end the war" The UK is warmongering for WW3 now? "Get ready for WW3! No peace talks! We want war!" is basically what they're saying. crazy times
View on Reddit #18528004

Efficient_Star_1336@reddit

I'll level with you, I am absolutely not getting drafted. Fighting the guys that come to get me might be certain death, but sprinting into a Russian minefield at gunpoint is also certain death, and the first one does more to protect my countrymen than the second one.
View on Reddit #18527738

lpblade24@reddit

War is peace
View on Reddit #18527200

Bigginge61@reddit

These people are utterly insane and should be removed before they destroy us all…
View on Reddit #18526478

NyanMusume@reddit

I would sooner die than fight the wars of the rich. Not that it matters, they would put me on factory duty or non combat.
View on Reddit #18484055

trade-craft@reddit

Pour sand in the gears of the war machine.
View on Reddit #18525891

exterminateThis@reddit

Lol 20 years. NATO thinks we're still gonna have a society in 20 years. LoL 
View on Reddit #18462981

antichain@reddit

A 20 year collapse is way too ambitious. Catabolic collapse will likely take decades and be a stop-and-go thing. Life isn't a Roland Emmerich movie where you wake up one morning and it's all normal and then, a few dramatic, CGI-filled hours later, collapse is "done" and it's time for the survivors to begin eking out a life in the newly-virgin post-collapse world. Collapse will happen faster in some places that others. There will be good years and bad years obscuring the overall downward trend. We probably won't even know we've hit the bottom until long after we've reached it.
View on Reddit #18467380

The1stDoomer@reddit

The main issue is how fragile our agricultural systems are, we're always only a couple weeks away from billions starving to death. I think it would also be good to consider how chaotic individuals would be. For example, say some highly populous country at the forefront of ecological collapse like India just says "fuck it" and releases nuclear armageddon because they are done for either way. That scenario is not hard to imagen at all.
View on Reddit #18525106

Lauzz91@reddit

"There will be no "collapse" the way some of these people think of it. It's not going to be like the movie "Dawn of the Dead" or whatever where one day suddenly shit hits the fan and prices skyrocket and everyone begins to riot and the SS comes marching down the street to kill everyone. There will be no "happening". It's far more insidious than that. Read the poem "The Hollow Men" by TS ELiot and you'll understand. You'll just notice that every day simple things will become a little more expensive. Everyone's homes and apartments will start to get smaller. your work hours will get longer, but your pay will decrease. You'll see family and friends less, and find that in time you care less about them. Every day you'll find yourself lowering your standards for everything: work, food, relationships, etc. Job security will no longer exist as a concept. You'll notice houses and apartments shrinking. People will start hanging on clothing longer and longer. Less people will get married, even less will have children. People will engross themselves in technological distractions and fantasy while never truly experiencing the real world. Whatever dream people used to have about what their lives were going to be will become for them a distant memory. The only thing left for them will be the reality of their debt and their poverty. And every minute of every day they will be told: "You are stupid, ugly and weak, but together we are free, prosperous and safe." That is the collapse. The reduction of the American man into a feudal serf, incapable of feeling love or hate, incapable of seeing the pitiful nature of his situation for what it is or recognizing his own self worth."
View on Reddit #18470351

gutt3rprinc3ss@reddit

is that not what’s happening as we speak?
View on Reddit #18474094

Lauzz91@reddit

It was originally posted in 2013, search for 13566884
View on Reddit #18475847

CertainKaleidoscope8@reddit

That leads to the incel forum
View on Reddit #18498611

Porphyrysm@reddit

Pats himself on the back while describing ***decline*** rather than ***collapse of law & order & catastrophic decrease in complexity within techno-industrial civilization*** Lol
View on Reddit #18495752

CertainKaleidoscope8@reddit

Published March 13, 2020
View on Reddit #18498545

GeelongFCNo5@reddit

This is a high-effort contribution. Thanks. 
View on Reddit #18475647

does_nothing_at_all@reddit

This is the Way the World Ends. Not with a Bang but a Whimper. -TSE
View on Reddit #18475321

Gygax_the_Goat@reddit

Well put
View on Reddit #18471694

exterminateThis@reddit

Completely disagree. Lug nuts can take a long time to loosen but when the wheel falls off, you crash.
View on Reddit #18477177

GeelongFCNo5@reddit

Children of Men, book and movie, depicted it pretty well. 
View on Reddit #18475589

Mystic-Son@reddit

This reflects how we live already, it makes sense to believe the trend will continue
View on Reddit #18472017

cachem3outside@reddit

This is ludicrous. The volume of geopolitical strife and chaos is unprecedented not only in our era, but all of human history. The difference between the geopolitics of now vs say, WWII simply is that particular conflict was far more kinetically advanced than the rapidly deteriorating diplomatic conditions we are seeing across our civilization, of which the proxy means of recent times are no longer serving their purpose as a pressure relieving tool. I believe that WWIII began on October 7th 2023 and even during the height of WWII, it wasn't commonly referred to as a world war until some time post hostilities. WWII was just a vastly different type of war as reflected by improved technology, and a generally more mature state of industrialization, when compared to the present day global conflict that's in its offing. Anyone who believes that we are 20 years out from WWIII is being manipulated by propaganda.
View on Reddit #18469319

blainer@reddit

On September 3rd 1939 a Danish newspaper ran the headline "The Second World War broke out yesterday at 11am" and Time Magazine called it World War II on September 11th 1939. By mid 1940 it was pretty much accepted by everyone in the English world that it was the Second World War. They weren't all that far removed from the First World War (the World War up until that point) and understood the gravity of what was beginning fairly early on. I hadn't though about it before this but the amount of time between the two World Wars was less than them amount of time between the September 11 attacks and today.
View on Reddit #18480376

jacktherer@reddit (OP)

very interesting thought. i'll specify a little further and say 1918-1939 was 21 years. 9/11/01-10/7/23 was 22 years. kiiinda eerie
View on Reddit #18512808

Instant_noodlesss@reddit

The water wars, but it'd be at local level. We'd be fighting our own countrymen for scraps.
View on Reddit #18466711

Friendzinmyhead@reddit

Thankfully my city is on top of a huge underground basin we aren’t even affected by the drought (So Cal)
View on Reddit #18474895

Laffingglassop@reddit

What city ? So we all know
View on Reddit #18501110

packsackback@reddit

They will come, and they will be THIRSTY!
View on Reddit #18480531

Lev_Alens@reddit

IDK man. I'm from South America and the water rights for most rivers in my country (ca. 80%) are owned by European companies. Imperialist scavenging of oversea resources doesn't really seem like a stretch.
View on Reddit #18495873

The_Great_Nobody@reddit

The floods will take out half of the worlds cities soon enough. It doesn't have to destroy them, its going to make everything damp and moldy. That will make you very sick.
View on Reddit #18466985

Chizmiz1994@reddit

Covid showed us that just slowing things down is enough to cause chaos. Floods could just slow things down, and it will be pretty bad.
View on Reddit #18469062

MaxRockatanskisGhost@reddit

Covid was a tiny rehearsal as to how our government will react when shit actually hits the fan. Society will eat itself immediately.
View on Reddit #18470991

GeelongFCNo5@reddit

Australia effectively shut its borders to its citizens living overseas during COVID. We didn't get to see our teenage son, who was living by himself in university accommodation and needed our help, for about two years. That was pretty wild. Great data though; if things get hairy, you're on your own. Doesn't matter what is printed in your passport. 
View on Reddit #18475536

exterminateThis@reddit

You should read the 3 body problem. Or the second 2 books were it talks about how countries respond to existential threat. Kinda crazy how close the truth and fiction are.
View on Reddit #18477099

CertainKaleidoscope8@reddit

不要回答 不要回答 不要回答
View on Reddit #18498460

GeelongFCNo5@reddit

Will check it out, thanks. 
View on Reddit #18477196

Chizmiz1994@reddit

Covid showed us that just slowing things down is enough to cause chaos. Floods could just slow things down, and it will be pretty bad.
View on Reddit #18469081

Madness_Reigns@reddit

Yes, an horribly authoritarian one as it seems the ratchet only ratchet one way and the only response we have for anything is more fascim.
View on Reddit #18497233

hstarbird11@reddit

There is an [asteroid ](https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/asteroids/apophis/) that is going to pass dangerously close to the Earth on Friday, April 13th, 2029. They say that they don't think it's going to hit us, but I think an asteroid is the great reset we need. An impact of that magnitude could cause a pole shift leading to massive shockwaves, tsunamis, and substantial flooding. Somehow I feel like if the universe doesn't intervene, we're going to blow ourselves off the planet anyway. For some reason, they decided to name this asteroid Apophis - the demon serpent who personified evil and chaos in ancient Egyptian mythology. But hey, I'm sure everything will be just fine. Just don't look up! Isn't there a new iPhone? Do you have a self-driving car yet? Have you seen how well the stock market is doing?!
View on Reddit #18470372

collapse-ModTeam@reddit

Hi, hstarbird11. Thanks for contributing. However, your [comment](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/comments/19bihj7/-/kisia7m/) was removed from /r/collapse for: > Rule 4: Keep information quality high. > Information quality must be kept high. More detailed information regarding our approaches to specific claims can be found on the [Misinformation & False Claims page](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/wiki/claims). Please refer to our [subreddit rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/about/rules/) for more information. You can [message the mods](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose/?to=/r/collapse) if you feel this was in error, please include a link to the comment or post in question.
View on Reddit #18480934

redditmodsRrussians@reddit

Isnt this how Tekkaman Blade started? The Radam came via asteroid initially......
View on Reddit #18478504

fjf1085@reddit

Two years ago they ruled out any chance of impact for at least a 100 years. As in zero chance of impact.
View on Reddit #18470902

WorldsLargestAmoeba@reddit

They cant rule out anything - since there might be stones hurtling at us directly and not in any orbit around the sun.
View on Reddit #18471084

fjf1085@reddit

They ruled out an impact of the specific asteroid referenced above, [Apophis](https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/asteroids/apophis/). As for other potential impacts yes, it’s possible they’ve missed something but they’ve gotten pretty good at tracking near earth objects. I think the danger more in lies with something on a long orbit from the Oort Cloud or Kuiper Belt, we may not have picked up yet. Although they’ve also gotten good at picking up and tracking things in the Kuiper Belt as well. So, I wouldn’t say there’s no risk, there’s always risk in anything but there’s at least no risk of the Apophis asteroid.
View on Reddit #18478405

ChemsAndCutthroats@reddit

Fun fact, the Chicxulub asteroid is roughly equivalent to 2,000,000 Tsar Bombas (50 megatons TNT equivalent bomb, largest nuclear device). So we can safely say that the Chicxulub was at least a couple orders of magnitude greater in destructive force. So millions of years ago the earth got hit with something more powerful than even our nuclear weapons today. Another Chicxulub level asteroid would certainly be enough to trigger a human extinction event.
View on Reddit #18477797

camopdude@reddit

That asteroid is not big enough to cause that much damage. You need something like the size of a mountain.
View on Reddit #18473233

i-luv-ducks@reddit

I predict that by late 2028 Linux will come up with a fantastic new distro called "Apophis." It will rock the gaming world.
View on Reddit #18472386

wrecktimsrectum@reddit

On Friday the 13th too, that would really be poetry.
View on Reddit #18471678

BABYEATER1012@reddit

2027 is when the poop hits the fan.
View on Reddit #18474018

Karos_Valentine@reddit

Poop is already hitting the fan. You just aren’t experiencing the splatter yet, but don’t worry, it’s already on route.
View on Reddit #18477691

BABYEATER1012@reddit

lol no its not. 2027 is going to be when China invades Taiwan and we're going full WWIII.
View on Reddit #18478082

Karos_Valentine@reddit

Tell that to the people being repeatedly bombed the world around; you’re privileged and sheltered from it because you exist under the storm shelter created by plundered worldly goods; the ill gotten gains of capitalism. Places like the Middle East and Africa are not, nor is eastern Europe anymore. It’s just a matter of time before the shit flung off the blades of the fans splats you in the face too.
View on Reddit #18478209

BABYEATER1012@reddit

My point is those skirmishes are isolated to small parts of the world. I am talking nuclear holocaust and the end of society. Poop has not hit the fan.
View on Reddit #18478648

HumanNo109850364048@reddit

They know society will collapse but they have to pretend as long as possible.
View on Reddit #18477189

Daniastrong@reddit

They might have to to use people as either cannon fodder or slaves to keep their zombie capitalist ship afloat.
View on Reddit #18470927

Coolcato@reddit

RemindMe! 20 years
View on Reddit #18470169

RemindMeBot@reddit

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View on Reddit #18470217

StupidSexySisyphus@reddit

Millennials were over it. Gen Z? NATO is insane and delusional.
View on Reddit #18468555

Tearakan@reddit

Yep. Famines will wipe out medium sized nations in the time period. Maybe some of the more stable regions will have better luck with smaller populations and keeping the lights on.
View on Reddit #18468481

miplondi@reddit

Dead Kennedys nailed it: start new wars and pump up the drug supply. https://youtu.be/wMzdHYEGHdE?si=zWcRYzky1lYhsl5i
View on Reddit #18519832

Xtrems876@reddit

Yes, one of the main reasons why I moved out of Poland last year, even though I loved it there
View on Reddit #18518915

Drone314@reddit

ROFL. Fastest way to end a war in the 1st world is conscription. The US learned that in Vietnam, why else did we get such great music out of that time period??? Conscription galvanizes opposition. I mean really though, what the fuck is the point of killing each other and over what? Some dirt, some oil, some pride? A holy book?
View on Reddit #18517888

GagOnMacaque@reddit

With dwindling birth rates who are they going to conscript?
View on Reddit #18517695

prolveg@reddit

I would rather die than every fight in support of western powers. I have no allegiance to the US. In fact I feel the opposite. The world would be a far better place without the power the US holds so yeah, if they think I’m gonna do a damn thing to benefit this godforsaken country, they’re delusional. I’m pretty sure anyone under 40 with a brain feels the same
View on Reddit #18517315

ObssesesWithSquares@reddit

Yep. This is the main problem. Even if you can survive the biosphere collalse somehow, you will be conscripted, where you are sure to die in some pointless war. It would not be trivial however, to survive toxic air, sulphuric rain, lack of medicine, food, and water that would have to be resolved to live on this hellhole. First, you would obviously need to live in an airtight shelter, and get your oxygen either by electrolysis from what little water you can find, or by compressing and filtering what little air is left. You would need multiple backup machines working at the same time, and spare parts for then. You would need a power source like geothermal or hardened solar panels. You would need an underground river or filtered air tank. You would need to grow food underground, scavenging whatever waste you can get outside with a robot or suit, sterilize it, and there would still be a risk of plastic, radioactive, or heavy metal contamination. You would need to grow whatever plants don't mind living in unnatural, artificial environments and you would need to grow enough of a variety and quantity to survive. You would need to secure the shelter from thiefs and angry vandals who rightfully think you are rich. You would have to keep it hidden from any renmants of a military that might want to eliminate you for whatever cynical reason. And finally you would need the expertise and reserve parts to maintain these over your lifetime. Too many mistakes, and you are doomed. Get just the wrong medical condition randomly? Doomed. And on top of that, if you want someone to survive after you are long gone, you would need manufacturing capabilities and multiple of these shelters trading together and not fighting amongst each other,  and you would need enough of them for redundancy's sake so the human (and some aninal) species inside of them don't go extinct. On top of all of that, if you run out of, or can't find enough resources, you are all dead. If this sounds outlandish, impractical, and stupid, it's because it is. We should have gotten rid of the fossil industry before it was too late, and sent the psychos to the appropriate mental asylums that they needed, instead of letting them run society. 
View on Reddit #18517052

jollyroger69420@reddit

Let's remember over 70% of Americans are too fat / drug addicted / mentally ill to qualify for service. The MIC has drones and nukes though, they don't really need soldiers anymore. The war can practically fight itself.
View on Reddit #18464477

Tigre-Geant1@reddit

They'll change the criteria.
View on Reddit #18515450

Emotional-Catch-2883@reddit

You might be surprised how much standards can get loosened up if things get desperate enough. Look up McNamara's Morons from the Vietnam War.
View on Reddit #18465183

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

Even Hitler started expanding later in the war https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/13th_Waffen_Mountain_Division_of_the_SS_Handschar_(1st_Croatian)
View on Reddit #18495484

Grognard68@reddit

The U.S. would have to be pathetically desperate if they draft me: *almost 56 years old * Diabetic * Near-sighted * Mental Health Issues (documented)
View on Reddit #18468050

t4tulip@reddit

Can still do paperwork. I grew up with a recruiter so this has always been a fear how low they’ll set the standards when they want to.
View on Reddit #18491951

StoopSign@reddit

Hey Nato official how bout you fuck off with that conscription talk.
View on Reddit #18515303

coff3371@reddit

NATO needs to go.
View on Reddit #18514709

Foamrocket66@reddit

Im not sure I understand this talk of the need of manpower for WW3. Doesnt every wargame/simulation for it always end in the use of nukes? How are more manpower gonna flip any scale in that case?
View on Reddit #18512374

Temporary_Second3290@reddit

I don't know but 20 years seems a bit too hopeful. I give it 10 years.
View on Reddit #18469471

TangeloEmergency9161@reddit

i said this to my husband too. 20 is basically 5-8 IMO 
View on Reddit #18471707

Temporary_Second3290@reddit

I'm underestimating too I think you're right
View on Reddit #18476950

Xilopa@reddit

It will happen during the next US presidency if Trump is elected. So more like 2-4 years time. It's the last time Putin will be able to use the republicans. Putin will be 76 years old when the next presidency is over. He wants to do this now. As soon as possible.
View on Reddit #18499602

trustyourrespirator@reddit

>It will happen during the next US presidency if Trump is elected. Biden has got us involved in multiple conflicts and is talking about an extended engagement in Yemen, if anything Trump is less likely to get us into WW3
View on Reddit #18501460

Xilopa@reddit

Republicans are willingly letting Putin gather momentum in Ukraine by withholding support. They seem to have no issue with Ukraine being demolished by a much larger aggressor. So I guess the way to prevent war would be to let Putin have it his way? Is that your idea of peace?
View on Reddit #18511395

HelloMateYouAlright@reddit

Conscript my nut sack, time the politicians and billionaires did the fighting for a change.
View on Reddit #18510069

MakeRFutureDirectly@reddit

Better yet, we can insist that our leaders be the first to be conscripted and watch how fast the world becomes peaceful.
View on Reddit #18509349

Ezzeze@reddit

I'm ready for war. I've been practicing my officer fragging throw.
View on Reddit #18508478

NoMoreUpvotesForYou@reddit

Haha jokes on you fuckers. I'm already broken from Afghanistan and the GWOT. I'll sooner go to prison than lets those cocksuckers draft me.
View on Reddit #18507331

Manifest0Man@reddit

a lot of leaders from different countries have been saying stuff like this recently. I genuinely believe a third world war is about to begin
View on Reddit #18468219

BruteBassie@reddit

Yup, the parallels with 1913 and 1938 are remarkable and undeniable. The stage is being set for The Grand Finale. This year I going to be interesting to say the least.
View on Reddit #18501815

Acantezoul@reddit

This is their only way of trying to keep power. If it comes down to it they are going down and the people will succeed
View on Reddit #18506072

ElbowStrike@reddit

Let’s everybody go to basic but then afterwards instead of going to war we all just socialist revolution instead
View on Reddit #18505366

wen_mars@reddit

For want of a million artillery shells, thousands of long-range missiles and hundreds of aircraft, the war was protracted
View on Reddit #18504232

Gergar12@reddit

Hard disagree with these comments.
View on Reddit #18503049

de-motivator10000@reddit

I'll be too old. These morons want to stop China because if they don't they're going to face the 2nd world status along with most of the declining west that aligned themselves to a corporate war racketeering model. So just more of the same. It's in the old rich pigs interests to send your kind to die on a battlefield for them.
View on Reddit #18502825

darkstar1031@reddit

I'm not worried about Russia. If it comes down to it, Putins own generals will take him out. It almost happened last year, and was only stopped because he cut a deal with the guy marching for him. Their military has been torn to pieces by Ukraine. I'd be more worried about the Finns marching on St. Petersburg than I am about Russia marching on the US.
View on Reddit #18502546

JaJe92@reddit

Guess I'm safe from conscription as I am overweight, cataract in one eye, half deaf and auto immune disease. Question is, how many will be conscripted as many are having health issue like me because many can't afford good quality Healthcare in particular US? Not talking about the amount of people being overweight?
View on Reddit #18502370

Ancient_Ad_3780@reddit

I'd sooner be an "ecoterrorist" than fight for one of their stupid wars. Better to fight for a cause I believe in if I'm going to be jailed and/or murdered for one of those stupid fucks at the top.
View on Reddit #18489294

trustyourrespirator@reddit

Cool thing is if you get drafted you can get access to all sorts of cool shit in the armory you can take off base
View on Reddit #18501911

Nyxbomb@reddit

They can get fucked, I’m not fighting for anybody.
View on Reddit #18501687

Classic-Today-4367@reddit

I'm not in Europe, but have been thinking for a while that conscription will be re-introduced right around the time my son will be coming of age (\~2030). Regardless what happens with Russia, climate change is going to lead to conflicts and masses of refugees all over the place.
View on Reddit #18501683

ShinySparkleKnight@reddit

Does anyone else think Russia is holding out for a Republican win? They are not doing so great rn. If that doesn’t happen I think they will spiral. If the R’s get the win this year tho, we are going to end up in ww3 in the next 10 years for sure.
View on Reddit #18500486

trustyourrespirator@reddit

Biden is already dragging us into WW3 now. There is no antiwar party in America, just 2 flavors of fascism
View on Reddit #18501594

triggz@reddit

Nuke the polar ice caps.
View on Reddit #18500010

Justpassingthru-123@reddit

They are preparing for a trump presidency..who will not fight with Europe and wants to withdraw from NATO. They can see he’s a danger to their interests.
View on Reddit #18469094

Xilopa@reddit

Correct
View on Reddit #18499623

brightlights_bigsky@reddit

Easy to say massive deficits are normal during “war time”. Problem is pretty damm hard to tell the difference these days between being “at war” and all the deployed troops fighting people in “not a war” actions constantly.
View on Reddit #18499289

Pollux95630@reddit

If you plan to have kids…you also better be prepared that they will likely be sent off to war to die.
View on Reddit #18498250

Chaos_cassandra@reddit

No.
View on Reddit #18497064

Zealousideal_Way_821@reddit

In order to get AI online without major risks they will need to limit its reach. The lack of capital/productivity behind upgrading the electrical grid even with the ev push and the AI push we already have provides us with a direction they are likely to go. Either lights out or just disconnect us from the internet. We’ve been getting hints like articles saying get used to not owning anything pushing people to go and buy physical goods, more utilities are advertising on the radio about what to do and how to prepare for blackouts, JPMorgan’s last prediction for this year was brown outs. We will be in the dark and have no knowledge about what is happening besides what we are told or hear. Can people keep it together? Can people who have relied on their devices their whole lives seek help for a path forward without the internet? Yes.
View on Reddit #18495757

Someones_Dream_Guy@reddit

"Defensive alliance" my ass.
View on Reddit #18495449

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

Decisions are made by people not affected by it.
View on Reddit #18495347

Tenn_Tux@reddit

Oh, so it’s Battlefield 2042 then
View on Reddit #18495291

Branson175186@reddit

Sort of vague. “At some point over the next two decades there’s gonna be a war so uhh keep and eye out for that”
View on Reddit #18493559

MayaMythical@reddit

You say conscription and I say sabotage
View on Reddit #18493429

_DidYeAye_@reddit

Ha. If they tried to conscript this generation, they'd spit in their faces.
View on Reddit #18492291

_DidYeAye_@reddit

Ha, if they tried conscription in Ireland, it would be a miserable failure.
View on Reddit #18491942

endlessnightmare718@reddit

Drink more beer
View on Reddit #18490855

mobileagnes@reddit

20 *years*? I don't know about anyone else but it feels more like 20 *months* to me. The last 5 years have been crazier than the 15 previous to that.
View on Reddit #18490187

StrangerDistinct6378@reddit

20 years? No I'll be surprised if we make it another 5 without some type of life changing conflict
View on Reddit #18489990

futurefirestorm@reddit

That is the dumbest non-advice, advice I have ever heard
View on Reddit #18489426

shredofmalarchi@reddit

20 years? Try 18 months.
View on Reddit #18488745

WilkoMilder@reddit

Why in the next twenty years? If you know that you plan on starting a war with Russia, why would you publish this article? How is Russia supposed to react to hearing that their most powerful adversary is prepared for an inevitable war? This article is strange and we should consider the intentions behind the people involved in publishing it.
View on Reddit #18475622

TangeloEmergency9161@reddit

what do you think? 
View on Reddit #18486360

hereiam-23@reddit

No hope!
View on Reddit #18484057

tmo_slc@reddit

Ohh a go conscript and fuck yaselves 🤌
View on Reddit #18484020

zedroj@reddit

I ain't fighting no wars, give me a gun to shoot random others?, I'll shoot my self to protest
View on Reddit #18483303

TheSilentFlame@reddit

but I do not want this :(
View on Reddit #18482677

moose098@reddit

I love how they pretend a war with Russia wouldn’t go nuclear in the first few days. None of this conscription bullshit matters when the nukes start flying. NATO knows this which is why they’re putting so much emphasis on private sector development. These warmongering idiots just want to help their friends out in the defense industry. NATO should’ve dissolved and replaced with something better after the Cold War, but certain powers were not going to let that happen. Now, after 30 years, they finally found their reason to exist again.
View on Reddit #18482007

BlackMassSmoker@reddit

Interesting as well that Grant Shapps, a pale imitation of a human being that is our current UK defence secretary, said in a [speech](https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/defending-britain-from-a-more-dangerous-world) recently: *“We find ourselves at the dawn of this new era – the Berlin Wall a distant memory – and we’ve come full circle, moving from a post-war to pre-war world.”* There are slimy UK politics at play here. Conservative voters get hard for *WHAAR!* and this is a conservative party in an election year facing a landslide defeat, and they're desperately throwing anything out there in hopes of gaining some votes. But there is a worrying trend happening right now, like psychologically we're being prepared. Like Iraq some 20 years ago, the topic of going war was a constant in the media, endless debates and analysis until eventually the invasion happened to some uproar from the public but most were apathetic about it. Remember, an *illegal* war as well. It feels like world leaders and the media machine are gearing to once again to get the general public comfortable with the idea of war again. Keep talking about it, debating it, and it'll become just as casual and routine as your morning coffee.
View on Reddit #18481699

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

Loyalty to country does not exist anymore because governments are shitting on natives in favor of immigrants. Send the immigrants to the front, to prove their allegiance.
View on Reddit #18466778

AaronBurrSer@reddit

You’re okay with war as long as you aren’t the one dying- is that it? Be better than that- it’s fucking embarrassing you see immigrants as subhuman cannon fodder. You’re a fucking human just like them- act like it.
View on Reddit #18467045

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

Politicians are okay with war, so long as they or their children doesnt die in it. Politicians give free lodging and benefits to immigrants while natives lives on the street. They have made their choice clear. They deserve each other. When diplomats fail, they should be the first to be shot. Suddenly, we will have peace in our time. War is a crime against civilians on all sides.
View on Reddit #18467366

AaronBurrSer@reddit

God have mercy on your soul
View on Reddit #18467766

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

I pity those that fall for propaganda and sacrifice their lives for the profit of a few. 
View on Reddit #18467916

AaronBurrSer@reddit

I pity the millions of lives you’re willing to write off. You’re far closer to the immigrants than you are to the people in charge. You’re willing to have those lives sacrificed for your own security and comfort- rather than see them as fellow human beings that have also been hurt by this fucked up world. It doesn’t matter. A hard as heart as that won’t soften to a Reddit comment. I’m not going to debate you any further- I only hope you’re shown the same mercy and grace you extend to others.
View on Reddit #18468286

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

Immigrants are here because "they fled countries that were dangerous". Dont worry. They will be safe because they will flee again to other countries. 
View on Reddit #18468500

collapse-ModTeam@reddit

Hi, ChunkyStumpy. Thanks for contributing. However, your [comment](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/comments/19bihj7/-/kisctva/) was removed from /r/collapse for: > Rule 1: In addition to enforcing [Reddit's content policy](https://www.redditinc.com/policies/content-policy), we will also remove comments and content that is abusive or predatory in nature. You may attack each other's ideas, not each other. Please refer to our [subreddit rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/about/rules/) for more information. You can [message the mods](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose/?to=/r/collapse) if you feel this was in error, please include a link to the comment or post in question.
View on Reddit #18481077

collapse-ModTeam@reddit

Hi, ChunkyStumpy. Thanks for contributing. However, your [comment](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/comments/19bihj7/-/kis89kl/) was removed from /r/collapse for: > Rule 1: In addition to enforcing [Reddit's content policy](https://www.redditinc.com/policies/content-policy), we will also remove comments and content that is abusive or predatory in nature. You may attack each other's ideas, not each other. Please refer to our [subreddit rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/about/rules/) for more information. You can [message the mods](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose/?to=/r/collapse) if you feel this was in error, please include a link to the comment or post in question.
View on Reddit #18473757

RageAgainstThe@reddit

That's pretty sick in the head, man. You should apply to the pentagon as a consultant.
View on Reddit #18468008

ChunkyStumpy@reddit

Pentagon is literally death for profit. They are the opposite of what anyone should consult to.
View on Reddit #18468289

Kittehmilk@reddit

There is absolutely 0 scenario where I fight for the parasite class in the US. It's not happening.
View on Reddit #18480013

Vegetaman916@reddit

Gee, if only someone had said this years ago... https://www.reddit.com/r/collapse/s/GpwiiwxTvK https://wastelandbywednesday.com/2022/04/04/how-the-war-in-ukraine-impacts-the-world/ They will slowly keep announcing little bits and pieces, each worse than the last, to try and get the general public used to the idea of ww3 inevitably happening. Which they have also known for some time now. Don't want to cause a panic, right? People might get themselves ready or something, can't have that.
View on Reddit #18474788

jacktherer@reddit (OP)

i remember that post m8. its been 2 years already? that the mans is now actually literally telling us to get ready cant get much clearer. just sprinkle in a little faster than expected and i think the match might be lit already but the fuse aint caught yet
View on Reddit #18478110

Vegetaman916@reddit

Hard to believe it's been that long... Yeah, fuse ain't lit, but it's not for lack of trying.
View on Reddit #18479375

LaddiusMaximus@reddit

Like hell.
View on Reddit #18478567

mrpyro77@reddit

No. No more brother wars on a dying planet.
View on Reddit #18478330

Automatic-Salad-6858@reddit

they can come get me if they want, but I will shoot whoever comes to get me
View on Reddit #18478085

iwatchppldie@reddit

I just hope I’m inside the fireball and not dying slowly being burned alive from strontium 90.
View on Reddit #18477458

Weirdinary@reddit

Have too many young, unemployed, unhappy men in your country? Afraid of social unrest and revolution? Just start a war! It's the easy solution that governments have used for thousands of years. No need to improve the lives of people in your country-- just kill them for an ideological cause.
View on Reddit #18466719

Low-Wolverine2941@reddit

But sometimes this leads to bad consequences for the elites. (Bolshevik revolution in Russia and the death penalty for the bastard Nicholas 2)
View on Reddit #18468874

equinoxEmpowered@reddit

True, but the October Revolution happened in *part* because the military allowed it, right? With the US military as caught up in moneyed interests as it is, it's difficult to imagine they'd do the same. The military industrial complex exists as it does because of capital
View on Reddit #18476207

Low-Wolverine2941@reddit

Yes you are right. The common people have NEVER made a revolution on their own. The Bolsheviks were very lucky and dozens of factors were in their favor.
View on Reddit #18476813

Sciotamicks@reddit

Much sooner.
View on Reddit #18476611

_Bike_seat_sniffer@reddit

Basically I'm just not going, if I have to die I'd rather take down the draft officer with me
View on Reddit #18476296

freesoloc2c@reddit

20 years is a fairly large window. 
View on Reddit #18475453

Frostodian@reddit

Ha, fuck off.
View on Reddit #18475420

HermanvonHinten@reddit

NATO can s*ck my ass.
View on Reddit #18475403

SomeGuyWithARedBeard@reddit

Domino Theory Part Deux 
View on Reddit #18475076

voidsong@reddit

Send all the gun nuts first, they like to cosplay soldiers.
View on Reddit #18469918

i-luv-ducks@reddit

Hear, hear!
View on Reddit #18474756

llewr0@reddit

I would love to see them try and conscript me to fight in their bullshit wars
View on Reddit #18469829

i-luv-ducks@reddit

I wouldn't.
View on Reddit #18474740

Wise_Rich_88888@reddit

Time keeps changing on this … the next 4 years, the next 8 years, now its 20 years…
View on Reddit #18463813

TangeloEmergency9161@reddit

what is it really 😭 
View on Reddit #18471760

Wise_Rich_88888@reddit

Its a maybe maybe not sometime in the future possibly
View on Reddit #18473647

hasbrouckie@reddit

Fuck war
View on Reddit #18473571

Upbeat_Philosopher_4@reddit

Conscription for what? They have the tech to do this shit with drones and missles, EMP, economic warfare, etc. Ground wars are nearly obsolete. It's meat for the grinder to depopulate..it's gotta be the only reason to bring troops in
View on Reddit #18471156

Locke03@reddit

If you're fighting an actual war where the intent is to defeat your enemy, the only way to do so it to have boots on the ground, taking and holding territory. Everything else can make that easier, but you still need people with rifles on the ground.
View on Reddit #18471909

Upbeat_Philosopher_4@reddit

Ah yes. I forgot the flag situation in Battlefield. Emperialism, ho!
View on Reddit #18472632

ZenApe@reddit

Hahaha. Conscript my broken old ass. I'll be the worst soldier you ever had.
View on Reddit #18471063

SupposedlySapiens@reddit

I mean obviously they’re not conscripting old people
View on Reddit #18471669

AllenIll@reddit

The U.S. dollar, as the world's reserve currency, is the single greatest weapon the United States has ever possessed. Even Britain in its empire phase didn't have the advantage of being able to print an international fiat currency on a scale and scope the U.S. has enjoyed for the last 50 years. It's pretty much unparalleled in modern history—if not world history. So, in this vein, much of the current conflicts we see in and around the world right now involving the U.S., and its allies, are in service of protecting this weapon/tool/instrument: *the dollar*. In some form or another. It is, by and large, what affords organizations like NATO to begin with. But, as is the case with all empires, they face challenges as they age and decay. Undoubtedly, the U.S. is no different. As political scientist Aaron Good puts it: > ["Whitey McDollar's eyes are flashing before his eyes"](https://youtu.be/WQCdvv4sDfQ?t=4758) All the natural resources of Russia on the world market and the export power of China in alignment trading outside the dollar system? That's a big problem for Wall St., Washington, and the dollar. So you can pretty much damn well bet that Whitey McDollar is not going down without some kind of a fight. At some point.
View on Reddit #18471451

WorldsLargestAmoeba@reddit

NATO is making an exercise that is conveniently next the Ukrainian border - just as they say that Ukraine is weeks or months from losing the war. It may mean that NATO intends to enter Ukraine as soon as Ukraine is lost - which means that NATO and Russia will meet inside Ukraine. If that is not a recipe for disaster I dont know what is.
View on Reddit #18471260

66qq@reddit

Fuck your wars, do them yourself
View on Reddit #18471130

Cyberpunkcatnip@reddit

Are they telling us water wars and population displacement without directly saying it?
View on Reddit #18466376

silverum@reddit

Russia has already “displaced” a lot of its male population trying to invade Ukraine
View on Reddit #18470960

CanadianHardWood@reddit

Anyone who watched the actual interview will know this is a stark contrast to what he actual said.
View on Reddit #18470063

hq78@reddit

Off to prison we go
View on Reddit #18470022

AluminiumAwning@reddit

Conscription, eh? They’d better tell their pals in the food industry to stop selling the canon fodder junk food then, otherwise their army is going to be a lot of out-of-shape junk food addicts.
View on Reddit #18469003

Low-Wolverine2941@reddit

Let the rich parasites send their children to war and die with them.
View on Reddit #18468621

Particular_Bad_1189@reddit

We have been preparing for next world war since late August 1945. Let’s not kid ourselves what our governments have up to….
View on Reddit #18468297

dANNN738@reddit

I can already picture the widespread social chaos caused by right wing tabloids when migrants/immigrants refuse to be conscripted.
View on Reddit #18468040

RageAgainstThe@reddit

Conscript recruiters are gonna run into booby trapped neighborhoods, or just simply get shot on sight by people. Hopefully it turns into a dangerous job. Fuck that I'm not destroying my body, leaving my loved ones and possibly dying for rich cunts who hide in their gated communities. My dad served in the navy and he told me endlessly not to enlist
View on Reddit #18467883

imminentjogger5@reddit

fear mongering using potential conflicts to distract you from the real threat of climate change
View on Reddit #18466239

RageAgainstThe@reddit

Maybe it'll get so hot one day that the armies don't feel like fighting?:)
View on Reddit #18467739

Ancient-Hunt7543@reddit

IMPERIALIST WAR IS NECESSARY AND INEVITABLE UNDER CAPITALISM workers of the world need to unite to end imperialist war! join your local communist party join the imt at socialistrevolution.org/join for us socialist.org for uk and marxist.com for worldwide join the international communist party at international-communist-party.org
View on Reddit #18467604

ReefJR65@reddit

See yall in the prison camps for not going to the front! Hope the soup is good on Sunday!
View on Reddit #18467298

Illustrious_Ice_4587@reddit

So we're definitely going to see some event that will put a lot of blood and mass death in the futures history books. People said it was impossible and not worth it and now it seems inevitable.
View on Reddit #18466089

Numismatists@reddit

The decisions have been made and only a few rich folk agree. The majority of us on this rock want Peace.
View on Reddit #18465381

tonkatsu2008@reddit

I think the Ukraine war has shown that drones are a lot more effective then conscripts. Nato should be focusing on accumulating drones and using AI instead of conscription.
View on Reddit #18464897

TheGoodShipRogupop@reddit

NATO, you should consider spending the next twenty years asking yourselves, "What should I say to and do to the public I rule so that twenty years from now when I ask, 'Please, will you die for me' they say 'Yes, NATO, I will die for you.'" I'n not gonna give the whole thing away, but as a hint, it doesn't start with the words "Donald Trump" or "Joe Biden."
View on Reddit #18464365

miniocz@reddit

Are finally going to finally do something with climate change?
View on Reddit #18463821

StatementBot@reddit

The following submission statement was provided by /u/jacktherer: --- obviously collapse related because this sort of conflict can literally destroy the world. also even without military conflict, nations may collapse when they realize their populations arent healthy enough for conscription --- Please reply to OP's comment here: https://old.reddit.com/r/collapse/comments/19bihj7/top_nato_official_urges_civilians_as_well_as/kirus47/
View on Reddit #18463617

jaymickef@reddit

In the TV show, “The Great” when war is breaking our between Russia and Sweden the King of Sweden says it could last for years and Peter says, “We’re Russian, we don’t care how many people die.” The show is a comedy-drama very loosely based on real events.
View on Reddit #18463330

Duronlor@reddit

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EV1W-H5WkAYVrz-.jpg
View on Reddit #18462893