German defense minister says draft could return if volunteer numbers fall short
Briefly

Germany is considering reinstating compulsory military service if a new voluntary recruitment system does not meet targets, as stated by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. He outlined a timeline for this new model, suggesting it could start by January 2026. The discussion comes amid rising concerns over national defense readiness due to evolving security threats in Europe, particularly following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The last draft was suspended in 2011, and the government is pushing for a new military service bill to bolster its understrength army.
Germany's new military service model will initially rely on voluntary enlistment, but if it fails to meet recruitment goals, conscription could be reinstated.
The discussion surrounding mandatory military service in Germany is intensifying in light of evolving security concerns, particularly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz's administration is pushing for a new military service bill that could be implemented by January 2026 if recruitment targets aren't met.
The current government is evaluating the recruitment process closely and has warned that if voluntary enlistment doesn't suffice, they are prepared to mandate military service.
Read at www.independent.co.uk
[
|
]