Germany is in danger of being drawn into 'violent conflict' with Russia, its intelligence chief warns

From the Newshound archive · first published 5 October 2026 · last updated 6 October 2026.

Martin Jaeger, head of Germany's foreign intelligence service the BND, told parliament that Russia's shadow war against European democracies has entered a new, more dangerous dimension. He warned the threat of attacks on German targets remains "real and imminent" after Berlin blamed Moscow for an attempted drone strike on Leipzig airport in August. Jaeger said Russia could also engage in low-intensity military action in the Baltic states, and that nuclear intimidation tactics should be expected.

Moscow is "betting on our weakness," Jaeger told parliament — and any sign of wavering will invite Russia to pile on more pressure.

Germany is Ukraine's largest donor, and Jaeger said Russia is determined to force Berlin to drop that support by keeping up the pressure.

Putin last week insisted Russia had "no intention of attacking anyone" — but Jaeger flatly rejected that, arguing Moscow stands ready to deploy force in pursuit of its objectives.