The presidents of Latvia and Estonia call on NATO countries to restore mandatory service and increase defense spending

Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs stated in a conversation with “The Financial Times” that European countries should return to Cold War-level defense spending and start a discussion on the restoration of compulsory service in order to strengthen defense capabilities.

“There is a need for a serious discussion about compulsory service,” said Rinkēvičs.

In a conversation with the media, Rinkēvičs admits that army commanders prefer professional armies and the restoration of compulsory service may prove unpopular in society, however, the armed forces in Europe have had problems with attracting new soldiers. In turn, the restoration of compulsory service will help create a trained reserve force to deter Russia.

“No one wants to go to war. However, the problem is that no one wants to be attacked either. No one wants to experience a repeat of Ukraine here,” emphasized Rinkevičs.

Meanwhile, Estonian President Alar Karis in a separate interview with The Financial Times expresses the opinion that Europe should consider introducing a special tax to finance defense purchases.

All three Baltic states spend more on defense than NATO’s target of allocating 2% of their gross domestic product (GDP) for this purpose. The Baltic States have set a goal of allocating 3% of GDP to defense.

“In this part of Europe and the world, we are aware that we need to get to 3%. Most NATO allies would have to return to Cold War spending levels. It was well over 2%,” said the President of Latvia.

Last year, Latvia restored compulsory military service. Lithuania and Sweden also recently acted similarly.

Estonia, Finland and Norway had not renounced compulsory service at all.