‘Germany and Russia are at war,’ says top defense exec
Stefan Thumann’s warning lands as Berlin hardens its stance on suspected sabotage by Kremlin operatives.
German defense executive Stefan Thumann has declared that Moscow's sabotage operations against his nation constitute "an act of war," in an exclusive interview with Paul Ronzheimer of the Axel Springer Global Reporters Network. Refusing to accept the EU's "hybrid war" labeling, Thumann insisted that "Germany and Russia are at war."
His comments come as Berlin escalates its stance against suspected Russian sabotage, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz preparing to attribute blame to Moscow for an attempted drone attack in Leipzig and plan extensive sanctions. Thumann's company, Donaustahl, provides combat drones to Ukraine. Living under constant surveillance and protection, Thumann revealed that Russian intelligence once plotted to poison him in 2025 and that authorities alerted him to potential danger shortly before Christmas.
In response, the executive transformed his residences into "honeypots," designed to lure hostile actors, and has since relocated to undisclosed locations with bodyguards. Concerned for his safety, Thumann has also prepared a will and advance healthcare directive.
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