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Merz warns of Russia's threat to Europe - as Germany moves towards reintroducing military conscription

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz says Russia "is and will remain" the greatest threat to Europe's security for a long time.

His comments come after Germany's cabinet today passed a draft bill that would introduce a voluntary military service, which could lead to conscription if recruitment goals are missed.

The bill still needs to gain parliamentary approval.

Germany wants to increase the number of soldiers in service from 180,000 to 260,000 by the early 2030s to meet new NATO force targets and strengthen its defences - part of a planned surge in military spending.