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Originally published by Capital News
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December 5, 2025
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Germany votes to bring back voluntary military service programme for 18-year-olds

Germany votes to bring back voluntary military service programme for 18-year-olds

It marks a significant shift in Germany's approach to its military and follows Chancellor Friedrich Merz's push to create Europe's strongest conventional army. - Kenya breaking news | Kenya news today | Capitalfm.co.ke..

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Germany's parliament, the Bundestag, has voted to reintroduce a voluntary military service program for 18-year-olds, aiming to boost national defenses following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This marks a significant shift in the country's military policy, despite protests from many young Germans.

  • The bill passed with 323 votes to 272.
  • From January 2026, all 18-year-old men will receive a mandatory questionnaire about military service, while it will be voluntary for women.
  • The plan is to increase the Bundeswehr from its current 182,000 troops to 260,000 by the early 2030s, supplemented by approximately 200,000 reservists.
  • Volunteers will be offered a monthly salary of around €2,600.
  • Widespread protests are planned in approximately 90 cities across Germany by students opposing the new law.

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