Germany has announced a series of new measures designed to combat espionage and sabotage as the nation continues to navigate what officials describe as ongoing "hybrid attacks" from Russia. The decision followed a meeting of the National Security Council, which was chaired by Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday.
Government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius stated that the council conducted a comprehensive review of the current security situation, particularly in light of a drone attack at Leipzig Airport last month that authorities have linked to Russian intelligence. Kornelius emphasized that Germany must remain prepared for continued exposure to such hybrid threats.
A primary focus of the new policy is the protection of critical infrastructure. The council reviewed existing national defense plans and approved additional steps to mitigate the risks of future sabotage and espionage. These developments come after several weeks of coordination between the various ministries represented on the National Security Council.
Beyond immediate security measures, the council also reached an agreement to reduce Germany's strategic dependence on foreign suppliers for critical resources and goods. Officials are moving toward a swift revision of investment-screening legislation. Furthermore, the government aims to build a more resilient and diversified supply chain for critical raw materials, with the Raw Materials Fund continuing to serve as the primary financing instrument under the existing Raw Materials Policy Action Plan.
In addition to these defense and economic security initiatives, the council also examined risks associated with artificial intelligence and reviewed the state of both military and civilian defense readiness.
