Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan stated on Thursday that the Army’s budget will be „slightly higher” in 2026 and will allow the start of the voluntary army programme, which will gradually begin with between 1,000 and 3,000 volunteers.

„Next year’s army budget will certainly be slightly higher than this year’s, and with this increase, which is a commitment Romania has made alongside other European countries, the Ministry of Defence will adjust its budgets. Next year should certainly be the first year in which those wishing to take part in this form of voluntary service will be able to start,” Bolojan told broadcaster Digi 24.

The prime minister explained that the programme will need to start gradually and expand in the following years.

„My view is that we must begin gradually, because when new people enter a new procedure, things must be properly organised. I believe there is a formula of gradual development, starting with a smaller number – 1,000, 2,000, 3,000 – which should then increase gradually in the following years depending on how Romanians respond,” Ilie Bolojan said.

The Government approved at the beginning of October the draft law allowing young people aged between 18 and 35 to participate voluntarily, for four months, in a basic military training programme. The draft has been adopted by the Chamber of Deputies and is currently before the Senate. AGERPRES