Archive · 14 Jan 2026
German General Shaken by Abuse Scandal in Elite Paratroop Unit
A very important general in Germany's army is very upset about some bad things that happened in a special group of soldiers.
Some soldiers did bad things like hurting others, using drugs, and supporting bad ideas.
The general said these soldiers should not be in the army.
Some soldiers were fired, and the police are investigating.
Other people in the government said the leaders should take more responsibility.
This is happening while Germany is trying to get more young people to join the army.
General Carsten Breuer expressed shock over a scandal in the 26th Parachute Regiment involving sexual abuse, extremism, and drug use.
The scandal emerged after female soldiers reported numerous cases of alleged abuse to the military ombudsman.
Disciplinary measures have been taken, including dismissals and handing 16 cases to civil prosecutors.
The opposition Green party accused Defence Minister Boris Pistorius of avoiding responsibility for the alleged abuse.
The scandal coincides with Germany's efforts to increase the size of its armed forces through registration of 18-year-olds.
- Who
- General Carsten Breuer, German military commander
- What
- Scandal involving sexual abuse, extremism, and drug use in the 26th Parachute Regiment
- When
- Report presented on January 14, 2024
- Where
- Berlin, Germany
- Why
- To address the scandal and strengthen leadership in the army
- Unit Involved
- 26th Parachute Regiment
- Reported Issues
- Sexual abuse, right-wing extremism, drug use
- Response
- Dismissals and cases handed to prosecutors
- Context
- Germany's military registration drive
- Opposition Criticism
- Accusations of avoiding responsibility