German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul warned Monday that Russia may have broader ambitions extending beyond its war in Ukraine, pointing to Moscow’s actions and previous statements by President Vladimir Putin.
Speaking to German broadcaster NTV, Wadephul said Russia had maintained good relations with Ukraine before the war and had not faced any direct threat from Kyiv. He also noted that Moscow had benefited from favorable supply agreements with countries including Germany.
“For this reason, we have to assume that Moscow has broader plans,” Wadephul said.
Putin’s Soviet Union Remarks
Asked what he meant by broader ambitions, Wadephul referred to previous comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who described the collapse of the Soviet Union as the “greatest catastrophe” of the 20th century.
“If that was the greatest catastrophe, then he is probably seeking to reverse it,” the German foreign minister said.
Wadephul said such ambitions could extend beyond Ukraine to countries including Georgia, Moldova and the Baltic states.
Germany Says It Could Be Affected
The German minister said Germany could also be affected because the Baltic states are members of both the European Union and NATO.
He stressed that Germany would not consider itself under attack only if German territory were directly targeted, but also if the territory of NATO allies such as Poland, Estonia, Latvia or Lithuania were violated.
Wadephul also said Germany was already facing what he described as “hybrid attacks,” citing drone incidents in Leipzig and previous cyberattacks.
Drone Incident at Leipzig Airport
In August, a drone carrying explosives was reportedly found among Ukrainian cargo aircraft at Leipzig/Halle Airport.
The German government has blamed Russia for the incident, while Moscow has denied responsibility.
The allegations come amid growing concerns in Germany and other European countries over potential security threats, including cyberattacks, drone incidents and other forms of hybrid activity linked to the wider conflict surrounding Russia and Ukraine.
