German Military Intelligence Warns of Escalating Russian and Chinese Espionage Threat

Germany's military counter-intelligence agency, MAD, released its annual report on Monday warning that the country has become a "prioritised target of Russian espionage activities." The agency pointed to Germany's geostrategic position within Europe and Nato, the expansion of the Bundeswehr, and the introduction of new weapons systems as factors driving the heightened targeting. MAD stated that the hybrid threat situation in Germany "has continued to deteriorate," encompassing cyberattacks, drone attacks, attempts at political influence, and disruptive operations aimed at transport, energy facilities, and telecommunications. The report also noted that some surveillance activities directed at military infrastructure can be linked to China. Additionally, MAD said the potential threat of sabotage by recruited contract agents, described as low-level agents, has increased significantly. The agency declined to provide comparative figures, explaining that such data could allow adversaries to draw conclusions. The report underscores growing concerns over foreign intelligence operations against German military and critical infrastructure.