EU nation introduces military service amid fears over Russian aggression
Conscription will be reintroduced in Croatia (The Associated Press)
Croatia's parliament has voted to reintroduce compulsory military service, a decision made on Friday by the EU and NATO member state.
This move reflects heightened European tensions following Russia's aggression in Ukraine and an apparent arms race in the Balkans.
Lawmakers approved the legal changes with an 84-11 vote, reinstating conscription which was suspended in 2008.
The reinstated service will involve two months of 'basic military training', aiming to equip young people with skills for national security and crisis situations.
Authorities plan to begin calling conscripts born in 2007 for medical checkups by the end of the year, with a salary provided and an option for civilian service for conscientious objectors.