DEVELOPING: Germany Approves Mandatory Military Service for 18-Year-Olds Amid Growing Security Concerns

Breaking News: Germany Approves Mandatory Military Service for 18-Year-Olds Amid Growing Security Concerns Germany's parliament, the Bundestag, has voted to introduce voluntary military service for 18-year-olds, with all men being sent a mandatory questionnaire from January 2026. The move aims to boost national defences after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The new law requires all 18-year-old men to express their interest and willingness to join the armed forces, while women will have the option to volunteer. This marks a significant shift in Germany's approach to its military, following Chancellor Friedrich Merz's push to create Europe's strongest conventional army. Germany scrapped compulsory military service in 2011, but the size of its military fell significantly after the end of the Cold War. Many young Germans are opposing the new law, with students planning to join strikes in up to 90 cities on Friday. The change is expected to take effect from January 2026, with the questionnaire being sent to all 18-year-old men. The government will then assess the response and begin the recruitment process. This is a developing story, and we will provide further updates as more information becomes available.