Germany’s defense capabilities are facing a critical reckoning, with a leading voice within the governing coalition signaling a potential return to mandatory military service. Thomas Röwekamp, Chairman of the Bundestag’s Defense Committee for the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), stated in an interview with “Welt” that the current modernization law, intended to bolster personnel numbers, may prove insufficient.
Röwekamp emphasized the pressing need to replace an annual cohort of 20,000 to 30,000 soldiers retiring from active service, arguing that relying solely on attractive volunteer service options is unrealistic. A parliamentary review scheduled for 2027 will assess whether recruitment targets are being met, but Röwekamp expressed a strong belief that a reintroduction of conscription is increasingly likely during the current legislative term. He identified extending service for those previously in the military as the most viable route to increasing the number of both professional soldiers and reservists.
Beyond immediate personnel needs, Röwekamp’s comments reflect broader strategic concerns tied to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He underscored the importance of maintaining a robust Ukrainian military as a primary defense line, echoing European proposals for Ukraine to retain a force of 800,000 soldiers even after a peace agreement is reached. The CDU politician also suggested the Bundeswehr could play a role in securing peace in Ukraine, potentially providing air policing, training and logistical support – though he dismissed the prospect of a large, permanent troop deployment.
Röwekamp painted a bleak picture of Russia’s intentions, asserting that President Putin remains committed to a military victory in Ukraine and seeks to escalate tensions with Europe. This stance was met with sharp rebuke from the Alternative for Germany (AfD), who accused Röwekamp of aligning with an “aggressive criminal regime” and allegedly downplaying the threat posed by Russia. The AfD, in turn, was criticized by Röwekamp for what he characterized as a superficial embrace of the Bundeswehr, lacking a concrete defense policy roadmap. He accused them of treating the military as a symbolic entity rather than a tool for national and alliance defense and failing to address how Germany will realistically confront future threats.
The debate highlights a deepening political chasm within Germany regarding security policy, particularly concerning balancing Ukraine’s defense needs with domestic resource constraints and the potential implications of conscription for German society.
