Croatia to re-launch mandatory military service after 17 years


Leon Dejanovic, 18, works out in Karlovac, Croatia, February 26, 2026. REUTERS/Antonio Bronic

KARLOVAC, Croatia March ⁠6 (Reuters) - Croatia is set to resume mandatory military service for the first time ⁠in 17 years as part of the European Union member's broader strategy ‌to address security concerns in Europe and the Western Balkans.

On Monday, 800 recruits will start two-month basic training in military compounds across the country.

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