Germany’s intelligence service has revealed that Russia is resorting to blackmail and financial incentives to recruit German spies after the expulsion of 600 Russian diplomats from Europe. Despite attempts to limit their operations, Russian intelligence services are heavily investing in recruiting agents in Germany, offering large sums of money for their services. The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) reported that two German citizens charged with high treason had been paid 400,000 euros each for spying for Russia.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 prompted a surge in Russian espionage activities in Germany, targeting individuals who lived in or frequently traveled to Russia. NATO also expressed concerns about Russian espionage and hostile activities, calling for a stronger response.
The BfV warned of Russian influence operations targeting far-right groups in Germany, including conspiracy theorists and extremist organizations. These groups are receptive to Russian propaganda, spreading groundless beliefs about the war in Ukraine and false narratives about Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
Despite facing diplomatic expulsions and media bans, Russia remains adept at influencing events in Germany through social media platforms and attaching spies to international organizations.
© Thomson Reuters 2024.