Berlin, Germany – In a remarkable statement reflecting growing security concerns in Europe, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed that reinstating compulsory military service in Germany may be a necessary step.
This is in the event that Russian threats escalate, indicating that this measure could have a deterrent effect on Moscow.
Pistorius said in an interview published by the German newspaper Bild,
“Reinstating compulsory conscription for all men in a given year,
Collecting data on those eligible for military service will have a significant impact in Russia as well.”
“This constitutes a clear deterrent and shows that we are prepared for any scenario,” he added.
The minister explained that if what he described as a “state of defense” arises,
This is something the German government is desperate to avoid,
as the German constitution allows for the immediate reactivation of compulsory military service.
“Then we will need to know who is ready to deploy and who is not,” he said.
Pistorius indicated that voluntary military service would remain the primary option “for as long as possible.”
But he did not rule out a return to full compulsory conscription if security conditions so required.
Regarding the controversy over the possibility of adopting a random selection system for military service,
As previously proposed by the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU),
Pistorius explained that the final decision on this matter rests with the German Parliament (Bundestag).
He also stressed that his ministry would provide all necessary technical and legislative support.
The minister revealed that the government is seeking to pass a new law on military service by the end of 2025, to come into effect early next year.
He stressed: “I am confident that we can achieve this, because everyone in the Bundestag understands that it is a matter of Germany’s security.”
Germany abolished compulsory military service in 2011, and settled for a voluntary system.
But rising tensions in Eastern Europe and the ongoing war in Ukraine have prompted Berlin to review its defense policy.
Pistorius’s statements come amid growing European concern about the possibility of the conflict with Russia expanding.
Western countries’ readiness to strengthen their defensive front at various levels.
