Germany Goes Full Force: Europe’s Biggest Army Since Hitler; Why Trump Is Being Blamed | World News

New Delhi: Germany is moving quickly to rebuild Europe’s most powerful army. It marks a historical turning point after World War II. The change came at a time when fear of Russia was growing. Public trust in the United States has decreased.

An important reason for this lies in the German public opinion. Polls show growing doubts about America’s role in Europe’s security. A survey by state broadcaster ZDF in June 2025 revealed skepticism. Most Germans no longer believe that the United States will guarantee the defense of Europe through NATO. This loss of faith led to a dramatic increase in defense spending.

Berlin has now opened the door to large-scale military recruitment. According to the new law, anyone over the age of 18 can be called up for military service. The system is optional in form. The law allows compulsory service when necessary. This allows the government to rapidly expand the armed forces.

Germany had 184,000 active-duty soldiers last year. The number increased by 2,500 in a few months. Chancellor Friedrich Merz told parliament that the Bundeswehr should be the strongest conventional army in Europe.

Military researchers say this is Germany’s biggest strength in recent years. They describe this as the strongest army since 2021.

The government launched a 23-month volunteer service program. The offer includes strong salary and benefits. Conscripts could then move on to long-term professional service. The model is similar to India’s Agniveer system. The main difference lies in time. India follows a four-year period.

Those hired in Germany will earn around 2,600 euros per month. Housing comes free and health insurance is covered. After tax, monthly earnings approach $2,700. The fee is seen as attractive for 18-year-olds.

Germany also made clear commitments to NATO. The country plans to increase the number of active soldiers to 260,000 by 2035. Reserve forces will increase to 200,000. These figures match Cold War levels. Moscow noticed this.

Russia’s ambassador to Germany expressed concern. He said Berlin was preparing for a large-scale military conflict with Russia. According to Germany, the change came after Moscow refused to withdraw from Ukraine. Berlin proposed $125 billion in defense spending. This corresponds to 2.5 percent of GDP. Defense spending in 2021 was only $56 billion. Germany plans to spend 3.5 percent of its GDP on defense by 2030.

Public opinion played a decisive role. Confidence in the United States has weakened in German society. The ZDF survey asked whether America would continue to protect Europe through NATO. Almost three-quarters said no. By December, this number increased even more. Almost nine in 10 Germans now view American political influence in Europe as harmful.

US President Donald Trump is shown as the main reason for this change. As trust in Washington declines, Berlin chooses to rely on itself. Germany no longer expects others to guarantee its security. Europe’s military balance is changing. Russia is watching closely.