Ahead of the scheduled meeting between Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska this Friday, a senior German official has voiced concerns regarding ongoing Russian activity and potential threats to national security.
Speaking to the media, the Head of the Federal Chancellery, Thorsten Frei, highlighted the multi-faceted nature of these challenges. He emphasized that the risks extend beyond conventional military threats to include significant cyberattacks and a concerted effort to disseminate disinformation with the intent of societal division. Germany, Frei stated, is a current target of intelligence gathering operations, encompassing both digital and traditional espionage methods – framing these activities as a form of warfare.
In response to these perceived threats, Frei asserted the importance of strengthening Germany’s defense capabilities and preparedness. He advocated for a robust Bundeswehr, capable of deterring potential aggression. Complementing this, he called for a substantial investment in and expansion of national security agencies, specifically citing the Federal Intelligence Service (BND).
Frei underscored the need for enhanced intelligence gathering to proactively identify and assess threats to Germany and its allied partners. While acknowledging the BND’s existing capabilities, he indicated areas for improvement, particularly in the realm of digital expertise and the associated legal frameworks necessary for effective operation. He suggested there remains “room for improvement” in these critical areas, allowing for a more comprehensive and effective response to evolving security challenges.
