In late December 2025, Germany’s right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) again came under intense scrutiny as centrist politicians accused the party of serving, indirectly, as a conduit for Russian interests. The controversy was triggered by reports from Politico on December 23 and later echoed by The New York Times and Der Spiegel, highlighting AfD’s extensive use of parliamentary inquiries focused on sensitive defense and security matters.
Parliamentary Questions Raise Security Concerns
Since 2020, AfD lawmakers have submitted thousands of formal questions—more than any other party—seeking details on arms transports to Ukraine, drone-defense systems, counter-espionage efforts, and the protection of critical infrastructure. While such inquiries are legally permitted as part of parliamentary oversight, critics argue that their sheer volume and specificity could, when combined, expose vulnerabilities in Germany’s security architecture.
SPD Warnings: “A List of Tasks for Moscow”
Thuringia’s Interior Minister Georg Maier of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) has been particularly vocal. He warned that the pattern of AfD questions resembles “a list of tasks assigned by the Kremlin,” suggesting they could help Russia piece together intelligence useful for hybrid warfare against Europe. Maier singled out AfD lawmaker Ringo Mühlmann, a former police officer, for submitting detailed queries on drone detection technologies and police capabilities.
Intelligence Officials Sound the Alarm
Concerns extend beyond Thuringia. At the federal level, security officials and lawmakers overseeing intelligence services have raised red flags. Marc Henrichmann, a CDU parliamentarian, noted that while governments can withhold classified information, repeated and narrowly focused inquiries may still reveal sensitive operational patterns—such as transport routes or logistical gaps—that could be exploited by a hostile foreign power.
No Espionage Charges, but Lingering Suspicions
So far, no public evidence has emerged that AfD lawmakers directly passed information to Russian agents, and officials have stopped short of accusing the party of espionage. Nevertheless, critics argue that the cumulative effect of AfD’s actions fits into a broader pattern that has long fueled suspicion over the party’s pro-Russia stance.
AfD Pushes Back, Claims Political Persecution
The AfD has forcefully rejected the accusations. Co-leader Tino Chrupalla dismissed them as “perfidious insinuations,” insisting that the questions reflect legitimate citizen concerns, such as disruptions caused by military convoys. Ringo Mühlmann has likewise denied following any Russia-driven agenda, emphasizing parliamentary rights to transparency. Party leaders have framed the backlash as a politically motivated smear campaign, with some filing libel suits against critics.
Extremism Classification Adds to Pressure
The controversy comes on top of a major institutional blow to the party. In May 2025, Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, the BfV, classified the AfD as a “confirmed right-wing extremist” organization, citing xenophobic rhetoric and efforts to undermine democratic principles. While the designation enables expanded surveillance, it does not amount to a ban. Several regional branches, particularly in eastern states like Thuringia, had already received similar labels.
Rising Popularity Heightens the Stakes
AfD’s growing electoral strength has amplified concerns. The party secured second place in the February 2025 federal elections and continues to poll between 20 and 26 percent nationwide. Its ascent has intensified fears that a movement openly skeptical of Germany’s post-war democratic and foreign policy consensus could wield significant influence.
Longstanding Pro-Russia Positions
AfD’s Russia-friendly views are well documented. The party opposes military aid to Ukraine, criticizes sanctions on Moscow, and has called for renewed economic ties, including Russian gas imports. Past scandals—such as alleged payments from pro-Kremlin networks to figures like Maximilian Krah and revelations involving aides linked to Russian intelligence—have further deepened mistrust.
Internal Divisions and the MAGA Factor
Despite its reputation, AfD is not monolithic. Co-leader Alice Weidel has attempted to tone down overt pro-Putin rhetoric, particularly as the party seeks closer alignment with Donald Trump’s MAGA movement. In 2025, internal disputes over planned Russia visits by AfD lawmakers exposed these tensions, with Weidel criticizing the trips while Chrupalla defended continued dialogue with Moscow.
A Broader Ideological Convergence
Analysts also point to a wider ideological overlap between Vladimir Putin, Trump-era skepticism of NATO and Ukraine, and European populist movements like AfD. Shared themes include nationalism, anti-EU sentiment, and hostility toward “globalist” elites. While direct coordination remains unproven, observers argue that AfD increasingly views both Putin and Trump as counterweights to liberal Europe.
A Test for German Democracy
As Europe confronts Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and a growing array of hybrid threats—from disinformation to espionage—the AfD controversy underscores deepening polarization within Germany. Mainstream parties warn of foreign influence infiltrating democratic institutions, while AfD portrays itself as a victim of establishment attacks. With key state elections looming, the episode poses a critical test of Germany’s democratic resilience and political unity.
