German Military Intelligence Warns of Increased Sabotage and Right-Wing Extremism

Germany's Military Counterintelligence Service (MAD) has reported a significant increase in the threat of sabotage and hybrid attacks. According to the MAD annual report for 2025, Germany is a priority target for Russian espionage due to its geostrategic position in Europe and NATO, the growth of the Bundeswehr, and the introduction of new weapon systems. Hybrid threats include cyberattacks, drone strikes, political influence attempts, and disruptions to energy, transport, and telecommunications infrastructure. The report specifically highlights a rise in the potential for sabotage carried out by low level agents, which the MAD suggests were likely initiated by Russia.

The report also identifies espionage attempts from China, including the use of the Chinese diaspora for drone flights and unauthorized entry into military properties. Additionally, the MAD expressed concern over Bundeswehr soldiers traveling to Russia or Belarus, noting that those with family ties in these countries are particularly vulnerable to blackmail and threats from foreign security agencies.

Internal threats are also rising, with new cases of extremism in the Bundeswehr increasing from 524 in 2024 to 610 in 2025. Right wing extremism saw a 26 percent increase in new case files, rising from 413 to 519. While the number of confirmed right wing extremists remained stable at 11 people, the MAD noted a normalization of extreme right positions and a shift in the boundaries of acceptable speech. The report also mentions the emergence of new right wing youth groups on social media, such as Jung & Stark and Deutsche Jugend Voran.