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Merz Warns Russia Wants “Part of Germany,” Says Drafting Women May Be Needed
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has stated that the option of conscripting women into the Bundeswehr cannot be ruled out in the long term, citing the continuing threat posed by Russia.
According to ZDF, Merz explained that if the recently introduced model of voluntary military service proves insufficient, Germany would need to develop a mechanism to return to mandatory military service — including the possibility of drafting women.
Currently, the German Constitution does not allow compulsory military service for women, meaning constitutional changes would be required. Merz emphasized that suspending conscription in 2011 was, in retrospect, a mistake.
Earlier this week, the federal cabinet approved a draft law to expand the Bundeswehr by several tens of thousands of soldiers.
The plan, developed by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, is based largely on voluntary service, with no immediate reintroduction of mandatory conscription. However, the government has acknowledged that a return to conscription could be considered if recruitment goals are not met.
The Bundeswehr currently has more than 182,000 soldiers, while the government’s target is at least 260,000. Critics, including the Bundeswehr Association, have expressed doubts about whether such numbers can be reached through voluntary enlistment alone.
Merz also highlighted the security challenge posed by Russia. He said that Vladimir Putin’s ambitions extend beyond Ukraine and warned of potential territorial claims affecting Germany.
“He wants to restore the old Soviet Union. And that includes part of my country,” Merz stated. He added that Germany must be prepared for a prolonged period of confrontation with an aggressive Russian regime.
On nuclear deterrence, the chancellor underlined Germany’s reliance on the US nuclear umbrella while also expressing openness to discussions on joint use of France’s nuclear arsenal. “I do not want to lead us into an additional new dependency,” Merz said.
Earlier in July, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed that Berlin had requested US-made Typhon missile systems capable of reaching targets up to 2,500 kilometers away, including deep inside Russia. While emphasizing the system’s defensive purpose, Pistorius said the Typhon would serve as a stopgap until joint European missile programs mature.
