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Germany Mulls Conscription for Lithuanian Brigade Amid Shortages

6/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Germany may conscript soldiers for 45th Armored Brigade in Lithuania because volunteers are insufficient.
The brigade targets readiness by 2027 with 4,800 soldiers and 200 civilians, but only about 1,800 troops are deployed.
Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said a call-up would follow staff meetings if shortages persist, while Lieutenant General Christian Freuding warned assignments could be used.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov condemned the deployment, saying it revives militaristic tendencies.

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Story summary

Germany may conscript soldiers for 45th Armored Brigade in Lithuania because volunteers are insufficient.
The brigade targets readiness by 2027 with 4,800 soldiers and 200 civilians, but only about 1,800 troops are deployed.
Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said a call-up would follow staff meetings if shortages persist, while Lieutenant General Christian Freuding warned assignments could be used.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov condemned the deployment, saying it revives militaristic tendencies.