The implementation of compulsory military service in Serbia has been approved. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, speaking at the oath-taking ceremony for new officers of the Serbian Army held in front of the parliament building in the capital Belgrade, announced that he approved the decision that foresees 75 days of compulsory military service for men. Vucic said that women will be able to continue to serve voluntarily. Stressing that Serbia has a difficult period ahead of them, Vucic said, “I believe that the Serbian government will accept the decision. I believe that you all understand why we need a strong army and why we have to buy more weapons. We do not want to attack anyone. We will not do that. Our desire is to deter those who constantly threaten us every day.”
“WE HAVE SUCCESSFUL TO DEFEND THE VITAL INTERESTS OF OUR NATION”
Stating that they have always faced difficult challenges, Vucic said, “We have faced those who tried to take away part of our lands from us, and often the most powerful states in the world that did not understand our needs, desires, constitution and homeland. But despite all this, we managed to maintain peace and defend the vital interests of our state and nation.” The Serbian leader stated that the number of personnel who can be called to arms in case of need will be increased thanks to the compulsory military service that will start within a year.
The decision must be approved by parliament for it to be implemented.
Prime Minister Milos Vucevic, one of the figures close to President Vucic, said yesterday that the government was ready to submit a law to parliament to return to compulsory military service. Vucevic noted that once the decision was passed, it could be put into practice in 2025, provided that the logistical and administrative conditions were met.
CROATIA IS RETURNING COMPULSORY MILITARY SERVICE AS OF JANUARY 1, 2025!
Serbia’s neighbour Croatia, which suspended compulsory military service in 2011 in order to professionalise the armed forces, also announced that it would return to compulsory military service as of January 1, 2025.