Germany has introduced new incentives to boost military recruitment, including free driving licenses and a monthly salary of €2,600, in response to the growing threat from Russia. These measures are part of a broader effort to strengthen its military capabilities amid pressure from President Donald Trump for increased defense spending in Europe. The German coalition government, comprising the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union and the Social Democrats, has agreed to these incentives after a heated debate.
The incentives aim to attract more young people to join the armed forces, with the government indicating that compulsory conscription could be considered if voluntary numbers fall short. The move signals a shift in Germany’s approach to defense, as it seeks to become part of a more robust European military alliance. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has declared that Germany’s armed forces would be transformed into