AfD Suggests Using Arms Production to Fund Deportations in Saxony-Anhalt

Ulrich Siegmund, the likely future leader of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, suggested that a weapons manufacturer could be authorized to operate in the state to provide resources for future deportation and repatriation campaigns. Siegmund stated that the party does not generally condemn the production of military equipment because such resources would be necessary for internal security, national defense, and stability. This suggestion comes as the Israeli company Elbit Systems is in negotiations to build a factory in Sangerhausen to produce components for other German companies. Local authorities have stated that the facility would not manufacture complete weapon systems, drones, or artillery projectiles, but could create up to 400 jobs. The AfD, which won nearly 44 percent of the vote in a historic election but fell short of an absolute majority, has promised a deportation offensive from its first day in power. The party has also proposed citizen patrols and separate classrooms for refugee children. Siegmund's stance on domestic arms production contrasts with the party's general opposition to record German defense spending and military support for Ukraine. Any support for the Sangerhausen project could complicate negotiations with the BSW, a populist left party that also opposes military aid to Ukraine and has campaigned against the factory project.