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German Military Faces Rising Russian Espionage Threats

12/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Military Counterintelligence Service (MAD) reports a surge in espionage by Russian intelligence targeting the Bundeswehr.
Russia seeks information on German military capabilities as support for Ukraine rises.
MAD Director Martina Rosenberg stresses vigilance against these threats.
Incidents from foreign operations nearly doubled in 2025, with cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns.
The agency also notes an increase in internal extremism, notably right-wing extremism in the military.

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Story summary

The Military Counterintelligence Service (MAD) reports a surge in espionage by Russian intelligence targeting the Bundeswehr.
Russia seeks information on German military capabilities as support for Ukraine rises.
MAD Director Martina Rosenberg stresses vigilance against these threats.
Incidents from foreign operations nearly doubled in 2025, with cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns.
The agency also notes an increase in internal extremism, notably right-wing extremism in the military.