Germany plans major military reforms to build what Chancellor Friedrich Merz calls Europe’s strongest army, aiming to expand its forces to 260,000 soldiers and 200,000 reservists by 2035.

A new bill would prioritize voluntary enlistment with higher pay and incentives, while allowing mandatory call-ups if recruitment targets fall short.

The push comes amid rising fears of Russian aggression, shifting U.S. security commitments, and warnings from German defense leaders that NATO must prepare for possible conflict within a few years.

The proposal has sparked political and public debate, with strong opposition from parts of the left and concerns that compulsory service could radicalize disaffected youth, CNN has reported.

Public skepticism remains high, reflected in growing conscientious objector applications, even as some young Germans acknowledge the need for stronger defense.