Group of former military leaders warns of loss of sovereignty due to lack of personnel
A group of retired military leaders warns that Portugal's defense capabilities are compromised due to a lack of trained personnel, despite recent investments in equipment. They emphasize that the current recruitment and retention crisis has reached alarming levels, threatening national sovereignty. The GREI highlights that the military's planning is overly focused on financial constraints rather than strategic needs, leading to a structural deficit in personnel. They argue for a reevaluation of military priorities and conditions to enhance the attractiveness of military careers, which have been diminished by slow promotions and inadequate compensation compared to other state forces. The group proposes establishing an independent body to address these issues.