Overview

• The coalition plans to introduce a voluntary military service first, with compulsory elements to follow only if recruitment lags.
• CDU figures including Daniel Günther and Norbert Röttgen insist voluntariness cannot close the Bundeswehr’s gap of up to 60,000 soldiers.
• Chancellor Friedrich Merz has indicated that he will consider reintroducing mandatory service if volunteer numbers remain insufficient.
• SPD parliamentary leader Matthias Miersch says any debate on a draft law must wait until the next legislative term.
• NATO General Christian Badia urges immediate preparation for conscription to meet the alliance’s largest rearmament targets since the Cold War.