German political parties in Germany’s ruling coalition, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), are now urging the Social Democratic Party (SPD) to consider a mandatory military service or to incorporate compulsory elements into the planned voluntary military service.
Schleswig-Holstein’s Minister-President, Daniel Günther, emphasized the need for a well-equipped and adequately staffed Bundeswehr in an interview with the Stern magazine. He stated that if the planned voluntary military service fails to meet the required number of soldiers, which could be up to 60,000, then it is clear that a more robust approach is necessary. Günther expressed his support for any preparations being made to introduce mandatory military service.
Norbert Röttgen, a CDU member and former Foreign Minister, also called for a shift in the government’s policy. He noted that the coalition agreement had initially planned to rely solely on voluntary recruitment for the additional soldiers, but the security situation and the pace of the Russian threat necessitate a Plan B, in case the voluntary approach does not yield the desired results.
Röttgen warned that the international security situation has significantly changed in recent years and that it is crucial to be prepared for potential Russian aggression. He emphasized the need for swift action, stating that the coalition cannot afford to wait for NATO’s preparations to be completed, as the Russians may attack earlier.
The CDU in Schleswig-Holstein has been advocating for the re-introduction of military service for men and women since last year, with a long-term goal of establishing a universal service obligation. The SPD, on the other hand, has maintained its plan for a voluntary military service, with no indication of a change in policy at this point.