Key facts
- Germany faces a risk of violent conflict with Russia, according to intelligence chief Martin Jaeger.
- Jaeger described Russia's actions as an increasingly aggressive "shadow war" against European democracies.
- An attempted drone attack in Leipzig was cited as an example of Russia's actions.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin denied any intention to attack NATO countries.
Germany is at risk of entering a violent conflict with Russia due to Moscow's escalating aggressive actions, warned Martin Jaeger, head of Germany's foreign intelligence service (BND), on Monday. Jaeger stated that the confrontation with Russia has entered a "new, more dangerous dimension" and pointed to an attempted drone attack in Leipzig in August as one example of Russia's hybrid campaign.
German authorities have repeatedly warned about Russia's use of drone and cyber attacks. Russia, however, has denied any intention of attacking NATO countries. Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia has no intention of attacking anyone but will respond to aggression.