Merz: Putin is waging hybrid war – Germany must be vigilant!

Merz: Putin is waging hybrid war – Germany must be vigilant!

In the current political debate about the threats Germany faces, CDU leader Friedrich Merz has warned urgently: “He is waging a hybrid war against all of us.” This clear message to the Kremlin comes at a time of increasing drone operations and cybernetic attacks that are affecting not only Germany but all of Europe. Merz emphasizes that Germany recognizes the worrying developments and is preparing for a solid defense. “We recognize the threat,” said the politician, which hits the nerve of the times, because the discussion about hybrid warfare is more topical than ever.

But what exactly is behind this concept? Where are the weaknesses that Putin exploits? Loud br.de The attribution of hacker attacks is often uncertain, although there are clear indications of attacks that were carried out by Russia. The debate is further fueled by the increasing number of hacker attacks from China. Particularly worth mentioning is the attack on German air traffic control in 2022, which can clearly be traced back to Russia. In addition, disinformation and fake social media profiles distort public perception, which is intended to undermine support for Ukraine.

Role of the federal government

However, the federal government appears unable to respond adequately to these hybrid threats. A query from the FDP on the subject was answered with vague statements about a “variety of measures”. Clearer answers and concrete strategies are needed because the risks of exerting influence, especially in the upcoming federal elections, are alarming. This assessment is further fueled by the ominous activities of suspected spies, such as the three people who observed a US military training area in Grafenwöhr. A prime suspect is suspected to be a “proxy,” showing that threat actors can often come from unexpected directions.

Difficulties in identifying such threats are also caused by the increasing number of drone overflights. Hundreds of reports of unauthorized overflights over Bundeswehr properties are causing concern and show that Germany is in a vulnerable position. Experts like Nico Lange are therefore calling for more room for maneuver for the Bundeswehr, especially with regard to the handling of drones. A current bill stipulates that security forces may shoot down drones under certain conditions in order to counter a possible threat.

Global developments

The international situation is also worrying. According to journalists like Reinhard Bingener and Markus Wehner, authoritarian states are increasingly conducting hybrid warfare. Her book clearly lists examples of such practices. For example, there were suspected Russian drones violating Polish airspace and similar incidents in Denmark and Norway. Another alarming incident concerned the Nord Stream pipeline, for which a suspect was arrested in Poland.

In summary, Germany needs to take a serious look at the security situation, both at national and international level. Preparations for hybrid threats must be strengthened to protect both the integrity of German democracy and support for Ukraine.