Germany faces 'shadow war' that goes beyond Cold War threats, minister warns

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has issued a stark warning that Germany is facing a far-reaching "shadow war" that extends beyond the scope of the Cold War era. During a press conference at the BfV, Dobrindt emphasized the need to bolster the domestic intelligence agency due to the multifaceted threats Germany now encounters.

Western officials have long alleged that Russia is conducting sabotage, cyber attacks, and hybrid warfare across Europe to undermine support for Ukraine, with Russia denying these claims as baseless. Dobrindt reiterated the gravity of the situation, highlighting the objective of destabilizing Germany fundamentally. This warning comes in line with recent revelations by Germany's foreign intelligence agency, the BND, which also expressed concerns about Germany's vulnerability to violent conflict with Moscow.

The Czech Republic's security service recently warned that Russia might resort to more significant and riskier operations against NATO members supporting Ukraine in the coming months. The recent failed drone attack at a German airport, blamed on Russia, has intensified calls for the expansion of Germany's intelligence capabilities.

BfV President Sinan Selen disclosed that Russia employs a range of tactics in its hybrid operations, including disinformation campaigns, information manipulation, sabotage, and assassination plots. Selen anticipates further actions similar to the Leipzig drone incident, which the Kremlin has dismissed. The German government is considering a reform bill that would grant intelligence services expanded powers, including the ability to take defensive measures.

Dobrindt stressed that Germany cannot afford to be a second- or third-rate player when it comes to developing intelligence services and capabilities, given the challenges the nation faces.