Romania is gearing up to expand its army by 35,000 troops amid rising regional tensions fueled by Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu said the army could grow to around 100,000 active-duty troops over the next four years, up from its current strength of 81,000.
Romania’s volunteer reserve force could also see a major boost from its current size of 79,000.
Ciolacu acknowledged challenges to the expansion, citing frequent dismissals, negative public perceptions of military careers, and stiff competition from the private labor market.
These issues have been blamed for an ongoing personnel shortage in the Romanian Land Forces.
Unstable Security
The planned expansion of Romania’s army is aimed at strengthening Bucharest’s ability to prepare for and respond to potential threats.
There are growing fears that Russia could target a NATO member if it claims victory in Ukraine, with countries actively supporting Kyiv seen as potential targets.