German Far-Right Party's Inquiries Prompt Security Concerns

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is facing scrutiny for its repeated attempts to access sensitive national security information. The party's actions have sparked a political uproar, with critics expressing concerns about potential risks to national security and the party's relationship with Russia.

AfD lawmakers have been using their constitutional powers to press government agencies to release classified details. One lawmaker demanded the release of the German military's supply routes to Ukraine. Another sought information on whether Germany had provided Ukraine with long-range missiles capable of striking targets inside Russia. A third inquiry concerned the potential use of German Army drones to patrol the country's eastern border.

According to one analysis, the AfD has made more than 7,000 attempts to access this type of secret information over the past five years. Opponents argue that releasing such information, especially regarding Germany's support for Ukraine, could aid Russian military planning. The AfD denies these claims.

These actions have heightened concerns about the AfD's ties to Russia. Party lawmakers have a history of praising Russian President Vladimir Putin, visiting Russian counterparts in Russia and at the Russian Embassy in Berlin, and questioning Germany's support for Ukraine.

The controversy surrounding the AfD's information demands comes at a sensitive time, as Germany grapples with how to respond to the perceived threat posed by Moscow to European and German security. The AfD is currently polling neck and neck with the ruling Christian Democratic Union party.