Germany's Intelligence Services: From Caution to Action

Germany is contemplating enhancing its intelligence services' powers to better counter perceived hybrid threats from Russia. Martin Jaeger, head of the BND, highlighted the growing need for active countermeasures at the Munich Security Conference. Germany has documented instances of sabotage and Russian-linked disinformation campaigns.

Germany is considering boosting its intelligence services and allowing them more operational freedom against a spectrum of hybrid threats emanating from Russia. This comes after years of restraint post-World War Two, as German officials see an increasing threat from the east.

The head of Germany's foreign intelligence service, Martin Jaeger, emphasized the importance of an aggressive strategy to counter these threats during a panel at the Munich Security Conference. He reported that Germany revealed significant Russian-linked influence efforts during last year's elections, involving misinformation and digital deception.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need to reinforce Germany's intelligence capabilities alongside rebuilding its military to defend against both internal and external threats. As the German parliament reviews a new bill, this could mark a shift from the country's cautious approach to a more proactive defense strategy.

(With inputs from agencies.)