China’s alleged espionage activities across Europe are drawing renewed scrutiny after authorities uncovered more than 30 suspected spies and collaborators linked to Beijing over the past two years, according to multiple investigations and security reports.
From military technology theft in Germany to surveillance operations targeting dissidents in Italy and covert data collection efforts in France and Greece, European intelligence agencies say Beijing’s influence operations have grown broader, more sophisticated, and increasingly difficult to detect.
The revelations are fueling fears inside the European Union (EU) and NATO about China’s expanding reach into critical infrastructure, advanced technology sectors, political institutions, and national security systems.
China’s Expanding Spy Footprint in Europe
Security officials across Europe have uncovered a series of espionage-related cases allegedly tied to China, exposing what experts describe as a coordinated strategy aimed at gaining political leverage, military intelligence, and technological advantage.
In Germany, authorities arrested a German couple of Chinese origin in May for allegedly collecting sensitive military technology data from universities. The case follows the 2024 arrest of Jian G., an assistant to a far-right German lawmaker, accused of spying for Beijing.
German lawmaker Engin Eroglu, chair of the EU delegation for relations with China, warned that Chinese intelligence tactics have evolved significantly over the past decade.
“China’s intelligence operations have become more professional, broad, and diversified,” Eroglu said, pointing to Beijing’s increasing focus on critical infrastructure, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and political influence networks.
Greece, France and Poland Uncover High-Level Espionage Cases
In Greece, authorities arrested Air Force Colonel Christos Flessas, NATO-cleared military officer, in February over allegations that he passed strategically sensitive information to Chinese handlers.
Investigators reportedly discovered encrypted communications and alleged financial transactions involving cryptocurrencies and Chinese yuan. Greek media claimed the colonel was initially recruited through LinkedIn*, a tactic increasingly associated with foreign intelligence recruitment.
Meanwhile, in France, authorities detained two Chinese-origin technicians accused of attempting to intercept **Starlink satellite communications and military-related data** near Bordeaux.
The operation reportedly came to light after neighbors noticed internet disruptions caused by a large satellite dish installed at a rented property.
Poland has also intensified counterintelligence measures since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Earlier this year, Warsaw arrested a foreign suspect accused of passing intelligence to China and imposed tighter restrictions on Chinese-made vehicles entering military zones.
Huawei Lobbying Scandal Deepens European Concerns
Concerns over Chinese influence escalated further after Belgian authorities launched raids linked to Chinese telecom giant Huawei in 2025.
More than 100 police officers searched offices and homes linked to alleged lobbying efforts aimed at preventing restrictions on Chinese 5G technology in Europe.
Several individuals, including a senior Huawei executive, reportedly faced charges over accusations of bribery and influence operations targeting European lawmakers.
The scandal revived fears that Beijing may be leveraging business ties to shape European political decisions.
‘Clandestine Police Stations’ and Diaspora Surveillance
European governments have also raised alarms over alleged Chinese surveillance of dissidents and expatriate communities.
Italy expelled eight Chinese nationals earlier this year over accusations of intimidating members of the Chinese diaspora.
The issue gained international attention in 2022 when Dutch authorities shut down alleged covert Chinese “police stations” operating in the Netherlands.
Human rights organization Safeguard Defenders previously claimed China had established more than 100 unauthorized overseas police offices across 53 countries, including several in Europe.
UK Faces Security Dilemma Over China Ties
The United Kingdom, home to some of the world’s most advanced intelligence services, has also experienced rising concerns over alleged Chinese infiltration.
British authorities recently secured convictions against individuals accused of using immigration databases to monitor Hong Kong dissidents residing in Britain.
At the same time, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government faces pressure over plans for a massive new Chinese embassy project in London, located close to sensitive communication infrastructure.
Security experts have warned that balancing trade relations with China while protecting national security is becoming one of Europe’s biggest geopolitical challenges.
Europe’s Strategic Dilemma
Despite increasing scrutiny, many European nations remain economically dependent on China, complicating efforts to impose stronger counterespionage measures.
Security analysts argue that Europe’s biggest challenge is no longer simply identifying alleged Chinese spies but building a coordinated defense strategy without undermining vital trade relationships.
With intelligence agencies warning that Beijing’s methods are becoming more advanced, Europe may soon face growing pressure to choose between economic pragmatism and national security.
