Germany's defence minister urges readiness for potential conflict amid Russia fears

In the years following the collapse of the Soviet Union, most Germans have grown to rely on their country's security being ensured through cooperation with Russia and open trade with China.

Even today, Scholz, a Social Democrat who traditionally advocates for strong links with Moscow, seems hesitant to engage in direct confrontations with Russia or China - as the newspaper reports.

Boris Pistorius took on the role of defence minister a year ago and has since frequently urged Germans to "prepare for war".

He believes that Vladimir Putin poses a threat of launching an attack on the country within the next eight years.

Pistorius spoke to interns at the German military academy, emphasising that his message was intended for a broader audience.

Are we truly prepared to defend this country? And who are these "we"? This debate needs to be held - he stated.

He also added, the peace and freedom Europe has relished in recent decades "are no longer certain". He portrayed the current geopolitical climate on the continent as a challenge "greater and more vigorous" than ever before.

Pistorius suggests that Germany should contemplate allowing residents without German citizenship to join the armed forces. This could help to boost the number of soldiers from 181,000 to around 203,000 by 2031.

This approach could mirror the United States' military system, where service in the military could potentially result in citizenship.

Each year, the German armed forces are short of 20,000 new recruits.

Nations throughout Europe are evaluating their resources to ensure they would be prepared to face an adversary like Russia.

The UK does not plan to reintroduce mandatory conscription. However, the UK's military chief of staff, Gen. Patrick Sanders, emphasised that society should prepare for war and be ready to fight, if necessary, against Russia.

Sweden, Norway and Finland, in addition to the Baltic countries, are already in advanced stages of preparation to tackle a possible Russian assault.