The German Bundestag approved a new plan to expand military recruitment, introducing mandatory medical examinations for young people without reinstating compulsory service. The vote—323 in favor, 272 against—reflects growing concerns over Russia’s expansionist ambitions and the evolving European security landscape.
This move is part of a broader European trend: France, Poland, and Belgium are also expanding their armed forces and reserve systems in response to heightened threats from Moscow. The reforms are not militaristic enthusiasm, but a reaction to a reality where Europe’s security can no longer be taken for granted.
For the Balkans, Germany’s reform signals that Western security architecture will be strengthened, limiting opportunities for Russia to exploit instability through proxies like Serbia. For countries pursuing EU or NATO membership, it reinforces that Euro-Atlantic integration remains the key security guarantee.
Berlin’s approach demonstrates a proactive stance against Russian threats, emphasizing that Europe—and the Balkans—must adapt to a new strategic reality where security vacuums will not be tolerated.
