Politics · Germany · 6 hrs ago
German minister warns of a destabilising “shadow war” against Germany
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt warned that the country faces a “shadow war” aimed at destabilising it.
He made the remarks at a press conference in Berlin on Monday and did not name who was behind the threat.
His warning followed comments by Germany’s foreign intelligence chief that the country risked entering a violent conflict with Moscow.
Calls to expand intelligence powers have grown since authorities blamed Russia for an August attempt involving an explosives-laden drone at a German airport.
A government bill would give intelligence services broader powers, including the ability to take active defensive measures.
The bill is being examined by parliamentary committees after its first reading in September.
German intelligence agencies have traditionally faced tighter limits than those of several allied countries, reflecting the country’s post-war history.
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt warned that a “shadow war” against Germany aims to destabilise the country.
He said the threat goes beyond anything seen during the Cold War.
Dobrindt argued that Germany needs to strengthen its domestic intelligence agency, the BfV.
His remarks come as the government considers a bill to expand intelligence services’ powers.
Authorities blamed Russia for an explosives-laden drone attack attempt at a German airport in August.
- Who
- German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt warned about the threat.
- What
- He said Germany faces a destabilising “shadow war” and called for stronger intelligence capabilities.
- When
- Monday, October 12, 2026.
- Where
- At a BfV press conference in Berlin.
- Why
- Dobrindt said the threat aims to destabilise Germany and requires stronger domestic intelligence capabilities.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Its clear aim is to destabilise us - to destabilise us fundamentally
The shadow war we are witnessing today has an objective that extends far beyond anything seen during the Cold War
Germany cannot be a second- or third-rate player when it comes to developing services and capabilities; we must remain at the forefront, given the challenges we face
An explosives-laden drone attack attempt at a German airport failed, and authorities blamed Russia.
The government’s intelligence reform bill received its first reading.
Dobrindt warned at a BfV press conference in Berlin about a “shadow war” against Germany.
- Interior minister
- Alexander Dobrindt
- Domestic intelligence agency
- BfV
- Press conference location
- Berlin
- Airport attack attempt
- An explosives-laden drone attack attempt failed in August; authorities blamed Russia.
- Reform bill
- Would give intelligence services broader powers, including the ability to take active defensive measures.
Sources
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