Germany is the target of 'intensive' espionage, Merz warns after a Ukrainian man is arrested on suspicion of spying for Russia

The suspect, named only as Vadym Y., is accused of being in contact with Russian intelligence through an intermediary since at least July 2025. Prosecutors say he gathered details on armoured vehicle, ammunition and explosives production. He also allegedly targeted sites securing NATO's eastern flank by approaching defence industry workers. He was arrested in Brandenburg and is due before an investigating judge on Friday.

Merz: 'Let us not delude ourselves', Russian spying in Germany remains 'consistently high'.

Former German spy chief August Hanning was arrested on suspicion of espionage earlier this month.

Ex-intelligence employee Manfred D is accused of passing Hanning about 2,000 classified documents for money.