Europe is engaged in an intense debate about security, driven by prolonged tensions with Russia and the crisis in Ukraine. Countries like France and Poland have increased their defense budgets in response to Russia's clear hostile intentions toward the eastern flank of the European Union.
In this context, the discussion about the possible reintroduction of compulsory military service in various European countries has resurfaced as a measure to strengthen their defensive capabilities. While some governments consider this measure necessary in light of the intensification of the Russian threat, others, such as in Spain, show majority opposition to this proposal.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has further stirred the pot by questioning his country's commitment to NATO and suggesting that Europeans should take greater responsibility for their own security. Trump's statements have significantly heightened fears about Europe's vulnerability to potential aggressions.
According to Alexandr Burilkov, a researcher at the Institute of Political Science at Heidelberg University, the Russian military has increased its military power since the start of the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. This situation has led to a majority of citizens in countries like France and Germany supporting the reinstatement of compulsory military service for young people as a preventive measure against the Russian threat.
