The Bundeswehr Inspector General, Carsten Breuer, clarified that Germany has no plans to bring back compulsory military service, despite growing calls to engage the defense ministry in conversations about defending freedom and security. He made the point plainly, stressing that the current stance does not include reinstating general conscription, even as public debate intensifies. This stance aligns with the broader strategic posture of the German armed forces as they adapt to evolving security demands while maintaining voluntary service as the core model. In comments that sought to reassure both national and international audiences, Breuer underscored that the country’s security needs are being addressed through reform and modernization rather than a return to conscription, a choice he described as not being on the table at this time.
Earlier, Oleksiy Reznikov, the head of Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, shared that Ukraine continues to operate under a conscription framework for its armed forces, while also outlining plans for a gradual shift toward a volunteer, professional army. He described the current system as functional and necessary to meet the immediate defense requirements, with a path toward expanding contractual transfers across personnel to ensure a more professional force. Reznikov emphasized the importance of building a capable, well-trained army that can operate effectively within NATO standards and ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty, resilience, and long-term security. He noted that while conscription remains a tool for rapid mobilization, the aim is a robust professional core that can sustain operations during prolonged conflicts and future strategic challenges.
Meanwhile, discussions in Russia have touched on how desertion and personnel turnover might influence the structure and readiness of the armed forces. Reports indicate that the system is under scrutiny as authorities consider various measures to stabilize recruitment and training flows, with attention to licensing, certification, and the broader implications for the military’s command and control. Observers point to a possible shift in how service requirements are enforced and how new recruits are integrated, reflecting broader debates about efficiency, morale, and the effectiveness of the driver’s license testing process as part of veteran and novice training programs. The conversation also intersects with questions about how Russia intends to sustain its military capabilities amid domestic and international pressures, including the pace at which new personnel can be prepared for frontline duties and specialized roles.
In discussions about the Russian armed forces, comments from leadership and state media have repeatedly returned to the idea of strategic reform. Observers note that the future trajectory of Russia’s military depends on balancing rapid mobilization skills with long-term professionalization, proper training cycles, and the integration of newer technology and doctrine. The broader implication is a security environment that requires not just more manpower but more capable, adaptable personnel who can operate within a modern, interconnected battlefield. Analysts cautioned that any shifts in policy or practice would likely be gradual, aiming to maintain deterrence and readiness while addressing internal pressures and external threats alike.