Concerns are mounting within the German Bundestag and defense establishment regarding the scope and nature of inquiries submitted by the Alternative for Germany (AfD) parliamentary group. Thomas Röwekamp, Chairman of the Bundestag’s Defense Committee, has accused the AfD of systematically acquiring sensitive information pertaining to Germany’s defense capabilities through a series of detailed parliamentary requests.
Speaking to “Der Spiegel”, Röwekamp expressed serious reservations, stating the sheer volume and specific focus of the AfD’s inquiries were “very transparent”. He argued that the level of detail and methodical structure of the requests couldn’t be simply explained by a legitimate interest in parliamentary oversight of the government. Instead, he suggested a suspicion arises that the AfD is deliberately and systematically seeking out militarily sensitive information from the Federal Ministry of Defense and the Bundeswehr – information that could be highly valuable to foreign powers, particularly Russia.
This accusation comes amid increased scrutiny of Russian espionage and hybrid attacks against Germany, with officials noting a persistent and escalating pattern of such activities. Röwekamp’s assessment reflects anxieties shared within high-ranking military circles and leadership at the Federal Ministry of Defense. Sources within the military, speaking anonymously, suggest that the requests appear coordinated to identify vulnerabilities within the Bundeswehr’s infrastructure and capabilities.
The sentiment echoes concerns previously raised by Thuringia’s Interior Minister, Georg Maier, who noted similar patterns in parliamentary inquiries within his state. Reports within the Bendlerblock, the headquarters of the German Armed Forces, even suggest a perception that the questions posed are reminiscent of “question catalogs from Moscow” targeting specifics of the Bundeswehr’s military capabilities and timelines for addressing critical capability gaps.
This situation has ignited a political debate, raising questions about the responsibilities of the opposition and the potential for misuse of parliamentary inquiry rights. The allegations demand further investigation to ascertain the true motives behind the AfD’s inquiries and to protect Germany’s national security interests.
