The Ministry of Defense of Latvia has announced plans to bring back the general military service in the country.

Artis Pabriks, Latvian Defense Minister, announced this, LETA.lv reports.

He stated that taking into account the threats posed by Russia and the need to improve the recruitment system for the country’s armed forces, the Ministry of Defense will propose introducing general military service in Latvia.

Military service will be introduced over the next five years in stages. The first draft will be held on January 1, 2023 — and will be completely voluntary.

According to Pabriks, about 1,000 people might be enlisted in the first year.

In general, the conscription will be held twice a year — on January 1 and July 1. Conscripts will have a choice of four service options. The service will last 11 months. The conscription age will be from 18 to 27 years, and women will be able to serve exclusively voluntarily.

The state will provide a compensation of €400 and cover all expenses for food and accommodation in the barracks.

At the end of their service, those who have passed it will be counted as the military reserve and will periodically be required to undergo short-term training to refresh their skills and knowledge.

Young people who refuse to serve will be sanctioned, but the Minister of Defense has not specified them yet.

Also, the selection procedure for potential military personnel was not yet announced.

The Ministry of Defense plans to use available databases and a personalized approach for each of the young people. Currently, Latvia has a professional military.

As previously reported, sappers from Latvia are assisting Ukraine in demining and neutralizing the explosive devices. Latvia also sent the converted ATVs to Ukraine to use in the difficult terrain.