Merz: Russian intelligence continues intensive activity in Germany, suspect arrested for espionage

The arrest of a Ukrainian national in eastern Germany, suspected of spying for Moscow, was hailed as an achievement by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

The head of the German government stressed that the country must prepare for an increase in cases of this kind in the period ahead.

“Germany is facing intensive espionage activity. The fact that we managed to uncover this case is a success, but we must have no illusions: Russian intelligence remains very active on German territory,” Merz said.

The suspect was arrested in the state of Brandenburg, which surrounds Berlin. According to the Federal Public Prosecutor General’s Office, he is believed to have used his contacts in the European defense sector to obtain military-related data.

Investigations show that the Ukrainian national communicated with Russian intelligence services through an intermediary since at least July 2025. He is suspected of gathering information on the production of tanks, ammunition and explosives, as well as on troops and military facilities at key points for the security of NATO’s eastern flank.

The arrest comes at a time when Germany, one of Ukraine’s largest military supporters, has raised its level of vigilance over the increase in incidents of sabotage and espionage attributed to Moscow.

Since the beginning of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine in February 2022, German authorities have repeatedly arrested individuals suspected of spying for Russia, including during the current year.