The sudden outbreak of war caught the British Empire across the Channel somewhat off guard. Although the British government had long anticipated that conflict was inevitable, they did not expect it to arrive so abruptly.
For Britain, an earlier onset of hostilities was preferable to a later one, especially given the rapid strengthening of the German navy, which posed a severe threat. Should Germany prevail, Britain's status as a global power would be jeopardized, greatly undermining its colonial system.
To maintain its supremacy, Britain had consistently pursued a policy of balance on the European continent, aiming to prevent the rise of any single hegemon. Whenever a nation began to ascend, Britain would conspire with others to curb its power. The last nation to face such treatment was France; now it was Germany's turn.
Due to its geographical position, Britain could safeguard its homeland from attack by maintaining a formidable navy, while leaving ground warfare to the French and Russians to contend with Germany. This was far preferable to losing countless British youths on the battlefield.
As Germany declared war on both Russia and France, Britain did not immediately respond with a declaration against Germany. On one hand, there were no military treaties with France and Russia obligating Britain to join the fray right away; the decision would hinge on national interests. On the other hand, Britain harbored a desire to observe the conflict unfold, hoping that Germany would weaken both France and Russia, thereby facilitating Britain's control over the post-war world.
Thus, the reality of international relations is that there are no everlasting friends, only enduring interests, vividly illustrated in this war. Even among allies, mutual calculations were at play.
However, Britain's calculations were clearly misaligned as Germany's subsequent actions disrupted their plans.
On the afternoon of August 2, the British Cabinet convened an emergency meeting, centered on the ultimatum delivered by Belgium, which warned that should they refuse passage to German troops, an attack would ensue. This was utterly unacceptable to the British.
"Damn the Germans! What are they thinking? Do they truly intend to force the British Empire into war?" Prime Minister Asquith erupted in anger.
If Germany did indeed attack Belgium, Britain could no longer afford to remain a passive observer. According to their commitments, Britain had a responsibility to protect Belgian security.
"Prime Minister, the Germans are employing a treacherous strategy! By attacking neutral Belgium, they are circumventing the heavily fortified French defenses and the rugged Ardennes, directly assaulting northern France. From our intelligence, northern France is woefully unprepared for such an invasion. If Belgium falls, France's defenses will be gravely compromised," Army Minister Richard Haldane lamented.
"We must notify the French to prepare. If they suffer a severe blow, it will be exceedingly difficult to contain the Germans," stated Sir Edward Grey, the Foreign Secretary.
Even though Britain sought to weaken France through Germany's efforts, they could not stand idly by as France faced devastation. The repercussions of a French defeat would be dire, risking Britain's own position in the war—a risk they could not afford.
"Very well, let's ensure the French are prepared," Prime Minister Asquith decreed.
"However, even if we inform them now, it may be too late. The Germans have already readied for war, allowing only 24 hours for Belgium to consider. Several hours have already passed, meaning there are less than 20 hours left before Germany strikes. The French are still not fully prepared; their standing army is primarily stationed on the eastern front. Even if they redirect troops to the north or Belgium, they will need time, and by then, Belgium may have already fallen," Churchill remarked, shaking his head in dismay.
Asquith's expression reflected his concern.
"What if we deploy an expeditionary force directly to Belgium?" Asquith inquired.
Though Britain's army was small and not particularly formidable, they still resolved to send an expeditionary force to the European continent in anticipation of the war, a request strongly advocated by the French.
"Prime Minister, gathering the expeditionary force will require time. Additionally, preparing war supplies will also take time. To deploy the expeditionary force will take at least half a month, and that's with only two divisions comprising four infantry brigades and one cavalry brigade, totaling over 70,000 men. A larger force would require even more preparation time," Army Minister Haldane replied.
"God! Are we truly powerless to intervene and must we simply watch as the Germans defeat Belgium and then strike at France? If that happens, we will lose the war!" Asquith exclaimed, filled with anxiety.
"Prime Minister, at this point, we can only hope Belgium can hold out a bit longer. Their Liège fortress is relatively robust. Let us pray that God watches over them," Churchill sighed.
Asquith pondered briefly before nodding; there was little else to be done.
"Very well, inform Belgium that we will send troops to aid them, urging them to endure. Furthermore, Foreign Secretary, warn the Germans that if they invade Belgium, we will enter the war. We must buy more time!" Asquith declared.
"Yes, Prime Minister," Sir Edward Grey nodded in agreement.
On August 3, Belgium formally rejected Germany's request for passage and dispatched troops to the Liège fortress to prepare for the impending German assault. Simultaneously, Britain issued a formal warning to Germany, prohibiting any military action in Belgium.
However, Germany disregarded Britain's warning and declared war on Belgium.
On August 4, German forces crossed the border into Belgium, and that day, Britain officially declared war on Germany!