Germany: Spy chiefs warn of increasing Russian threat

German intelligence chiefs have raised alarms about an escalating threat from Russia, suggesting that the country could be capable of launching a direct attack on NATO by the end of the decade. During a parliamentary oversight meeting, leaders from Germany's intelligence agencies reported a significant increase in Russian-sponsored espionage and sabotage activities within Germany. They highlighted aggressive behavior from Russian intelligence services, including incidents of suspected sabotage, such as a fire at a DHL logistics center. The intelligence heads emphasized that Russia views Germany as an adversary due to its support for Ukraine, and they warned of a potential military confrontation with NATO by 2030. In addition to the Russian threat, they also pointed out security risks from China, Iran, and domestic extremism. The intelligence chiefs called for greater powers and flexibility to effectively counter these threats, criticizing government plans that could limit their operational capabilities. They stressed the need for improved data sharing and monitoring capabilities to enhance national security. This warning coincided with similar alerts from British intelligence regarding threats from Russia and other nations.

- German intelligence warns of a potential Russian attack on NATO by 2030.

- There has been a notable increase in Russian espionage and sabotage activities in Germany.

- Intelligence leaders call for expanded powers to effectively counter security threats.

- The German armed forces are identified as a primary target for Russian intelligence.

- The warning aligns with similar concerns raised by British intelligence regarding global threats.