Germany’s coalition government has agreed to move forward with a new military service plan aimed at boosting troop numbers. The country also hopes the measure will help it build the strongest conventional army in Europe. Lawmakers will be voting on the decision by the end of 2025.
According to the new plan, 18-year-old men will be required to complete a questionnaire on their suitability for military service. Also, from 2027 onwards, men who are 18 and above will undergo medical screening for military purposes.
Indeed, Europe's military strength has taken on new urgency amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. The European Commission has proposed mobilizing up to €800 billion (US$863 billion) for defense, as tensions rise within the EU over Russia's actions. Furthermore, ever since President Donald Trump took office again in January, the US has had a complex relationship with European allies regarding Russia and Ukraine, fueling further divisions.
This gallery looks into the European countries with the strongest militaries, highlighting their readiness to navigate these growing geopolitical challenges. Click on for the top 30 countries.