German Parliament Approves Military Expansion Law

Germany's parliament approved a new military service law on Friday, introducing measures to significantly expand the armed forces amid growing concerns over Russian aggression in Europe. The legislation, passed by the Bundestag with 323 votes in favor, 272 against, and one abstention, aims to increase active personnel in the Bundeswehr from around 182,000 to 260,000 by 2035, while building reserves to at least 200,000.

The reform establishes a dual-track system prioritizing voluntary enlistment to attract recruits without immediately reviving mandatory service. Starting in January 2026, all 18-year-olds will receive questionnaires asking about their willingness to serve, with responses mandatory for men and voluntary for women. Men born after January 1, 2008, will undergo medical evaluations as capacity allows, though this does not require enlistment. The plan offers incentives such as higher pay, improved training, and flexible service terms beginning at a minimum of six months to make short-term roles more appealing.

Defence Minister Boris Pistorius described the law as a decisive step for the nation's defense capabilities. "Our allies are looking to us," he told lawmakers,...