German spies granted sweeping new powers

Germany’s parliament has approved legislation granting intelligence agencies, including the BND and BfV, expanded powers to actively disrupt threats through hacking and technical interventions. Passed by 308 votes to 190, the reform allows agencies to delete stolen data from servers and disrupt hostile operations abroad.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt characterized the bill as a necessary response to terrorism and foreign espionage, citing a recent drone incident at Leipzig-Halle airport linked to Russia. While the government argues this addresses a critical security gap, opposition parties like Die Linke have criticized the move, warning that it risks creating a secret police force and violates privacy standards.

Analysts suggest the reform reflects Germany’s shifting foreign policy following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, though concerns regarding constitutional limits and historical surveillance remain a point of contention.