In the discussion about the future design of military service (Wehrdienst) in Germany, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) expects a swift agreement. "In my opinion, we are in the home stretch, and I am very optimistic that we will reach an agreement next week," he said Friday evening on the ARD program "Tagesthemen."
He added that he was "very, very confident." However, as the responsible minister, he currently does not want to comment on the details. He noted that the governing coalition is conducting "intensive discussions," and it is not up to him to report on the status of those consultations.
Chancellery Minister Thorsten Frei (CDU) also expressed optimism: "We are all united by the goal of ensuring the necessary personnel growth for the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces)," he told the "Rheinische Post" on Saturday. "The tense security situation does not allow for any delay."
Frei emphasized that Defence Minister Pistorius faces a multitude of tasks. He must equip the Bundeswehr with sufficient personnel, material, and infrastructure "so that the commitments made can be fulfilled. At the same time, the ongoing support for Ukraine with weapons, equipment, and ammunition must continue to be organized."
Currently, about 182,000 soldiers are serving in the Bundeswehr. To meet NATO commitments, the goal is to increase active forces to around 260,000. Additionally, 200,000 reservists are to be added. Pistorius aims to introduce a new voluntary military service.
The debate within the coalition centers on what mechanisms should be implemented if not enough volunteers can be found.
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