German intelligence report warns of rising Chinese, Russian spy threat
Germany’s military counter-intelligence agency, known as MAD, has warned of a growing threat from hybrid attacks and the use of recruited contract agents, or low-level agents, saying Germany is a “prioritised target of Russian espionage activities”. According to the agency’s annual report released on Monday, it cited Germany’s geostrategic position in Europe and Nato the expansion of the…
Germany's military intelligence agency, MAD, has issued a warning of an increasing threat from espionage activities by China and Russia. The agency's annual report, released on Monday, cites Germany's strategic location in Europe and NATO as reasons for the heightened targeting. MAD points to a range of potential threats including cyberattacks, drone attacks, and attempts at political influence.
The report highlights the growing use of contract agents and low-level agents for espionage purposes, with a particular concern for German military personnel traveling abroad, including visits to Russia and Belarus. This increases vulnerability to blackmail and threats from foreign security services. China's intelligence services are also involved in surveillance activities targeting military infrastructure, including drone flights and intrusions onto Bundeswehr property.
Additionally, there has been an uptick in suspected right-wing extremist cases within the German military. There was a 26% increase in such cases in 2025 compared to 2024. The MAD has identified 11 armed forces staff as right-wing extremists and 21 individuals with credible evidence of disloyalty to the constitution. The report also notes the influence of new right-wing groups on social media and their involvement in disruptive actions against public events.
Written by urgent.news from Reuters Business via SCMP's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
