Germany beefs up its intelligence services as threat from 'foreign powers' rises
German officials accuse Moscow of waging a "hybrid" campaign of sabotage, espionage and disinformation against the country, which is among Ukraine's biggest military supporters in the war with Russia.
Germany's government is set to enhance the capabilities of its intelligence agencies in response to escalating threats from entities such as Russia and extremist groups. The Cabinet approved draft legislation on Wednesday to bolster the Federal Intelligence Service, BND, and its domestic counterpart, the BfV, while diminishing the nation's dependence on intelligence tips from allies.
The intelligence services of Germany have historically lagged behind those of prominent European counterparts, a concern heightened by Germany's status as a frequent target of hybrid attacks from foreign powers. Nina Warken, the Chancellor's chief of staff, emphasized that Germany is increasingly reliant on foreign intelligence services, which often provide support in a one-sided manner.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that the government is actively modernizing its intelligence services to match the competitiveness of partner services within the European Union and beyond. Dobrindt highlighted that the country faces daily espionage, sabotage, cyberattacks, and covert actions by foreign entities aiming to destabilize, harm, or politically and socially transform Germany.
Written by urgent.news from Associated Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
