Six suspected spies have been arrested in Germany in quick succession, raising concerns about espionage activities related to the war in Ukraine, economic interests, and a threat to democracy.
German security services have identified links between the suspects and various countries, including China and Russia. The arrests have prompted calls for swift and decisive action to counter these threats.
Thomas Haldenwang, President of Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, emphasized the growing threat posed by China’s espionage activities. He warned that Chinese academics and students at German universities may be obligated to provide information to their government.
The agency also expressed concerns about potential espionage risks associated with economic cooperation and joint ventures with China. Haldenwang highlighted the need for a critical assessment of risks and benefits in such collaborations, particularly in science and academia.
Attention has also been drawn to suspected links between a detained Chinese agent and a politician from the far-right AfD party. This arrest has raised concerns about foreign influence in German politics.
German security services believe that Russian espionage is also on the rise in the country. Haldenwang pointed to Russia’s willingness and ability to conduct complex operations in Europe, given its ongoing military actions in Ukraine.
Following the start of the war in Ukraine, Germany expelled around 40 suspected Russian agents. Intelligence reports suggest that Russia continues to attempt to recruit Russian nationals living in Germany, although the community has shown resilience so far.
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has hailed the recent arrests as a success, highlighting the efforts of security authorities in countering espionage threats from both Russia and China.
