German intelligence chief warns Russia could drag Germany into armed conflict
Photo: German military personnel (Getty Images)
German intelligence has warned of the risk of direct conflict with Russia amid Moscow’s intensifying hybrid campaign against Europe, according to Reuters.
Martin Jaeger, head of Germany’s Federal Intelligence Service (BND), said the confrontation with Russia had entered a new and more dangerous phase.
Jaeger made the statement on Monday during the annual public hearing of the heads of Germany’s intelligence services in the German parliament.
“The confrontation we are facing with Russia has taken on a new, more dangerous dimension,” the BND chief said.
He also said Germany could be drawn into an armed confrontation with Russia. As one example of the threat, Jaeger cited an attempted attack in Leipzig.
“Germany is in danger of becoming embroiled in a violent conflict with Russia — the attempted attack in Leipzig is just one example,” Jaeger stressed.
Germany speaks of a “shadow war”
German authorities have repeatedly warned about the intensifying Russian hybrid campaign against European countries.
According to German officials, Moscow is using drones and cyberattacks as part of the campaign. Russia has also been accused of organizing an attempted drone attack on Leipzig Airport in August.
Such incidents, German officials say, demonstrate that the confrontation with Russia is moving beyond traditional political disputes.
At the same time, Moscow denies having any intention of attacking NATO countries.
NATO has developed a “theory of victory” in case of a Russian attack. The strategy envisions a rapid response from the Alliance, with extensive use of drones, AI and other emerging technologies.
Meanwhile, Estonia is changing its defense strategy and shifting to “active defense.” The country is moving its main brigade closer to the Russian border and strengthening its long-range strike capabilities.ф
