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

BERLIN — Germany is considering the possibility of reintroducing compulsory military service if voluntary recruitment efforts fall short, according to the defense minister. In an interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung, Boris Pistorius outlined a timeline for Germany’s new military service model, which aims to strengthen the army. The initial focus will be on voluntary enlistment, but Pistorius noted that mandatory recruitment could be implemented if necessary.

The government under Chancellor Friedrich Merz is expediting the process of drafting a new military service bill, with hopes of implementation as early as January 2026. The decision to potentially reinstate conscription comes amid growing concerns about national defense readiness and evolving security challenges in Europe.

Germany ended its draft in 2011, but has faced difficulties in meeting troop targets as defense requirements increase following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Pistorius also mentioned plans to engage more reservists as part of the military service strategy.