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Germany to Reintroduce Mandatory Military Service Screening in 2028

7/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In a bold move to bolster national security against Russian aggression, Germany will introduce mandatory military service screening for all 18-year-old men in 2028. A questionnaire will gauge their readiness to serve, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz targeting 40,000 recruits annually by 2031. This initiative marks a potential return to conscription, suspended since 2011.

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Story summary

In a bold move to bolster national security against Russian aggression, Germany will introduce mandatory military service screening for all 18-year-old men in 2028. A questionnaire will gauge their readiness to serve, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz targeting 40,000 recruits annually by 2031. This initiative marks a potential return to conscription, suspended since 2011.