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Germany Expands Bundeswehr as Merz Warns Russia “Is and Will Remain the Greatest Threat to Europe”
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![Photo of Cyril Barabaltchouk]( "Photo of Cyril Barabaltchouk")
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Germany’s cabinet on Wednesday approved measures to strengthen the Bundeswehr, citing high tensions with Russia as the driving force. Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Russia “is—and will remain for a long time—the greatest threat to freedom, peace and stability in Europe” and stressed Germany must maintain NATO’s largest conventional army on the continent, France24 reported on August 27.
The measures include a recruitment drive to reach at least 260,000 troops and 200,000 operational reservists. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said provisions for compulsory service could be enacted if voluntary enlistment falls short.
From January 1, 2026, all young German men will receive a questionnaire assessing fitness, skills, and interest in service, with participation voluntary for women. Starting July 1, 2027, all 18-year-old men will also undergo a mandatory medical examination, even if they do not opt for service.
The recruitment campaign features salaries of at least €2,300 ($2,660) per month, healthcare, and other benefits. The cabinet also approved a new national security council and measures to protect the armed forces against cyberattacks, sabotage, and other threats—measures framed explicitly as a response to Russia’s growing military assertiveness.
Previously, it was reported that German defense company Rheinmetall, together with the Bulgarian government, planned to invest more than one billion euros in the construction of Europe’s largest gunpowder plant, as well as a new facility for the production of 155mm artillery shells.
