Germany records a "significant increase" in Russian espionage and sabotage
Germany reported a sharp increase in Russian espionage and sabotage activities, warning that the country has become an increasing target due to its strong military and political support for Ukraine.
Holger Münch, head of the Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt), told the Tagesspiegel newspaper that Germany has seen a "significant increase" in cases of suspicion related to espionage and sabotage from Russian entities, warning that Russia aims to undermine the German democratic system.
According to Monch, the number of cases related to Russian elements handled by the Federal Public Prosecutor's Office (Generalbundesanwalt) has increased significantly. He also noted the rise in cyber threats, including activities by state-linked hackers.
He explained that these cyber operations are often accompanied by disinformation campaigns and suspicious drone activities, but he confirmed that there is currently no evidence proving that Russia is systematically flying drones over German territory.
On December 12, Germany summoned the Russian ambassador in response to a major cyber attack and disinformation campaign. Foreign Ministry spokesman Martin Geise stated that the attack is linked to Russia and aims to divide society and sow distrust, warning that these actions pose a serious threat to German national security.