Germany beefs up its intelligence services as threat from ‘foreign powers’ rises

Germany is expanding its intelligence services to counter increasing threats from foreign powers such as Russia and extremist groups. The government aims to strengthen the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) and the domestic intelligence service (BfV) with broader powers to tackle sabotage, hacking attempts, and cyberattacks. The reforms come as Germany faces a significant reliance on foreign intelligence support and a growing vulnerability to hybrid attacks.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt emphasized that the nation must develop intelligence capabilities on par with its EU and friendly international counterparts. The proposed legislation, which requires parliamentary approval, would grant intelligence services greater access to personal devices and the ability to take proactive measures against threats.

Recent incidents, such as the discovery of a drone carrying explosives at Leipzig/Halle airport, highlight the urgency of these reforms. While specific foreign threats are not named, Russia remains a major concern for European authorities.