German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has indicated that Germany may reinstate mandatory military conscription as early as next year if voluntary enlistment fails to meet the nation's NATO obligations, amidst growing tensions with Russia. Conscription was abolished in 2011, but is being reconsidered in light of perceived threats from Russia, which Moscow dismisses as baseless attempts to justify increased military spending by the West.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz and coalition partners are reportedly aligned on a “Swedish model,” combining selective mandatory and voluntary service, with a bill expected by year's end. Pistorius emphasized the initial focus on voluntary participation but left open the possibility of mandatory service if needed. The German chancellor aims to transform the Bundeswehr into the “strongest army” on the continent, committing financial resources to achieve this goal, a move that NATO allies are reportedly urging.

Die Welt reported that NATO is pressuring Berlin to expand its military forces, despite concerns about high dropout rates hindering target achievement. Pistorius stated that Germany must mobilize 460,000 soldiers and reservists, including 200,000 active-duty troops. Since the escalation of the Ukraine conflict in 2022, Germany has become a major supporter of Kiev, providing heavy weaponry while denying direct involvement. General Carsten Breuer, Germany’s chief of defense staff, has stated the country must be war-ready to confront Russia by 2029.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Germany was the world’s fourth-largest military spender in 2024, after the US, China, and Russia. NATO members have collectively increased military expenditure to $1.5 trillion, with European members contributing roughly one-third. The European Commission has proposed raising an additional €800 billion to “rearm” the EU and increase weapon production for Ukraine. Russian officials have criticized these militarization efforts, viewing them as preparations for war with Russia rather than support for peace initiatives in the Ukraine conflict.