Concerns Mount Over AfD's Potential Access to Germany's Secret Operationsplan Deutschland

Bastian Ernst, President of the Reservistenverband der Bundeswehr and CDU Bundestag member, has raised urgent security concerns about the far-right AfD party possibly gaining power in Sachsen-Anhalt. Ernst warned that should the AfD take control, there is a significant risk that the highly classified Operationsplan Deutschland could be leaked to Russia, threatening Germany’s national security.

The Operationsplan Deutschland, a secret document exceeding 1,000 pages, outlines defense strategies for crises or war scenarios, particularly focusing on countermeasures against Russia. It is crucial for coordinating national defense efforts and ensuring alliance security, especially with Germany serving as a strategic hub for NATO forces on the eastern flank.

To prevent potential leaks, Ernst proposed retrieving the operations plan from Sachsen-Anhalt or moving it securely to the Defense Ministry, where access could be strictly limited to authorized personnel. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) has expressed support for this protective measure.

Ernst emphasized the seriousness of the threat, describing the AfD's possible rise in governmental power as an "enormous threat." In times of crisis, federal authorities would gain greater access to state resources and information, but preemptive safeguarding of sensitive material like the Operationsplan Deutschland remains critical.

This development highlights concerns about the intersection of domestic politics and national security. The possibility of classified defense strategies falling into hostile hands, particularly Russia, could undermine Germany's strategic position and the broader NATO defense posture. This situation demands decisive action to secure Germany’s most sensitive defense plans against political risks.

As of September 14, 2026, discussions continue on how best to secure the Operationsplan Deutschland from potential political infiltration and ensure it remains outside the reach of parties whose loyalties are questioned, reflecting broader tensions within German politics and security policy.