With Donald Trump floating the idea of annexing Greenland and hinting at other military actions, questions about a possible draft have started to surface again.
Recent US strikes on Venezuela added to global tension, and when combined with Trump’s comments about Greenland and potential action against Iran, they have fueled fears of a wider conflict. If war were ever to break out, the US government does have the authority to reinstate the draft, though it would require several legal steps.
As those worried seem to be spreading, Google searches for “World War III” and “US draft rule and age” have spiked, reflecting growing concerns about potential military conscription.
While the US currently has no active draft, it remains on standby under federal law and can be activated in cases of a national emergency.
Following the Vietnam War, US abolished military conscription in January 1973.
A recent survey by the Atlantic Council shows that 69% of responders believe a war between powerful nations may take place within the next ten years.
Since three generations of Americans have not been required to serve in the military, many of them are unfamiliar with the nation’s draft procedures.
First to be drafted are men aged twenty. Additional drafts would include those turning 21 to 25, followed by 19- and 18-year-olds if more troops were needed. Over 16 million men 18–25 are registered, while 1.3 million currently serve.
The Selective Service includes citizens, non-citizens, refugees, asylum seekers, transgender people assigned male at birth, as well as men with disabilities.
The only exemptions from the US draft apply to men who, before turning 18, are placed in long-term care or confined at home with medical assistance, remaining so without interruption until turning 26.
Further, ministers, certain elected officials, and some dual nationals are also exempted from the draft, while those who are in college can ask their service to be postponed.
In case of change of law, women can be drafted too.
Draft registrations are handled by the Selective Service website and post offices. The registration is mandatory by age 18. Failure to register may result in felony charges, maximum penalties of five years in jail, and fines of $250,000.
According to expert, these felony convictions can lead to losing the right to vote and possess a firearms, and losing eligibility for government employment and federal student financial aid.
Possible drafts require Congressional approval by amending the Military Selective Service Act.
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