(ANSA-AFP) - BERLIN, AUG 27 - The German cabinet on Wednesday signed off steps to boost recruitment for the country's armed forces and strengthen military readiness in the face of high tensions between NATO and Russia. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said the drive aims to attract volunteers to the Bundeswehr, but the proposal also includes provisions for compulsory service in case numbers fall short in coming years. From January 1 next year, a questionnaire will be sent to all young German men and women to assess their interest in serving, including questions on their level of fitness, skills and interests. While men are required to complete it, it will be voluntary for women, according to a draft law that must still be passed by parliament. Starting on July 1, 2027, all 18-year-old German men will also be required to undergo a mandatory medical examination, even if they do not opt for voluntary military service. Merz stressed that "Russia is -- and will remain for a long time to come -- the greatest threat to freedom, peace and stability in Europe". He reiterated his goal that Germany, the EU's most populous nation, "must have the largest conventional army on the European side of NATO". Conscription was officially suspended in Germany in 2011 under then chancellor Angela Merkel. (ANSA-AFP).