Hans von der Burchard

Hans von der Burchard wrote that the German-French paper of the day marks a break with decades of German restraint towards China's unfair trade practices. At the same time, Europe, particularly Germany, has quickly replaced the US support for Ukraine after its withdrawal and is beginning to take more responsibility for security. The development is not yet complete, von der Burchard wrote. If the federal government maintains its course, withstands pressure from the right and left, and makes progress on social reforms, that would be a significant achievement. Merz will likely go down in history as the most unpopular chancellor, and there is much to criticize about him; however, looking back, historians may view his chancellorship more leniently. #Deutschland #Europa #Handelspraktiken (translated)

Hans von der Burchard reported that BND chief Martin Jäger warned during a intelligence hearing in the Bundestag of a growing threat from Russia. Germany could become involved in a violent conflict with Russia; the attempted attack in Leipzig is an example of this. According to Jäger, no other country currently poses a similarly direct and comprehensive threat. Russia is pushing for confrontation because Germany does not accept Moscow's policies and its attack on Ukraine, and supports its alliance partners. Jäger stated that Russia is assessing Germany's reaction and interprets any sign of uncertainty as an invitation for further pressure. Vladimir Putin cannot simply end the war against Ukraine without jeopardizing his power base at home, and therefore must demonstrate success. Although the Russian leadership is aware of the limits of their military and economic means, they compensate for weaknesses with repression, resource allocation towards the war, as well as determination and willingness to take risks. Moscow assumes that the West will not withstand the pressure and relies on its weaknesses. For the upcoming winter, Jäger expects particularly harsh Russian attacks on Ukraine. Russia may also attempt to disrupt Western arms production and deliveries using military means, and to weaken Europe’s support for Ukraine through intimidation and interference. He anticipates renewed nuclear threats. Currently, there are no indications of a large-scale Russian attack on NATO territory; however, low-level military activities, especially in the Baltics, as well as so-called false-flag operations cannot be excluded. Jäger described Russia's actions as a shadow war and warned of a continuing real danger of attacks in Germany. According to von der Burchard, the BND sees itself as the first line of defense; the contribution referred to an intelligence reform with new powers. #Russland #Ukraine #Sicherheit (translated)

Was am Ende von diesem spekulativen Post bleibt: Weder Merz noch Minister machen Urlaub auf den Seychellen, der AfD-Abgeordnete dagegen offenbar schon. (Maschine musste auf Übungsflug notlanden; siehe Statement des BmvG in meiner Antwort unter dem Post von Herrn Kaufmann). #Politik #Deutschland #AfD