In brief
In a recent speech, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that Russia’s espionage network remains at a consistently high level following the arrest of a Ukraine‑national suspected of spying for Moscow. The suspect, identified only as Vadym Y., was said to have gathered detailed information on German military production and supply chains. Merz praised the investigation as a success but cautioned that more cases are likely to surface, citing a series of other arrests this year. The incident underscores Germany’s role as a key weapons supplier to Ukraine and its vulnerability to foreign intelligence operations.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared that Germany is a target of ‘intensive’ espionage after a Ukrainian national was arrested on suspicion of spying for Russia. The suspect, known only as Vadym Y., is alleged to have collected military‑related intelligence, including details on the production of armored vehicles, ammunition and explosives. Merz praised the investigation as a success but warned the public not to feel falsely assured, noting that Russian intelligence activity in Germany remains at a consistently high level.
Earlier this year Germany has arrested several individuals believed to be acting on behalf of Russia and other foreign powers, as it continues to supply weapons to Ukraine since the 2022 invasion. The Federal Prosecutor General’s Office confirmed that Vadym Y. had contacted a Russian intelligence service through an intermediary since at least July 2025. The Ukrainian man is scheduled to appear before an investigating judge on Friday.
In addition to the recent arrest, a former German spy chief, August Hanning, was taken into custody on suspicion of espionage, treason and obtaining classified information for a foreign power. Hanning, who led the Federal Intelligence Service from 1998 to 2005, has worked as a private consultant since then. Police also detained a former BND employee, Manfred D., accused of passing Hanning around 2,000 classified documents for money.
At a conference in Montenegro, Merz warned that more such cases could arise in the coming months and years. He reaffirmed Germany’s defence and security partnership with the United Kingdom, emphasizing coordinated efforts to counter hybrid attacks and hostile activity. The talks followed Germany’s accusation that Russia launched a drone equipped with explosives at Leipzig/Halle Airport, an incident that Russia denied, stating Germany had planted evidence to blame it.
