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German teens skip schools nationwide in protest at compulsory military service

German students stage nationwide school strikes against the planned return of compulsory military service, adding pressure on Chancellor Merz’s government.

Dieter Reinisch 
Pres TV, Munich

Following heavy losses in recent local elections, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s conservative CDU party and his government are facing increasing pressure over some of their controversial policies.

On Friday, youth organizations, trade unions, and student associations held the fourth nationwide school strike against the reintroduction of compulsory military service. Munich was among the cities where large demonstrations took place. Our correspondent has more details from the event.