A US citizen has been detained in Germany on suspicion of offering sensitive military information about US forces to China, Germany’s Federal Prosecutor’s Office announced. Identified as Martin D under German privacy laws, the suspect was apprehended in Frankfurt on Thursday.
German prosecutors stated that the individual allegedly expressed his willingness to operate as an agent for a foreign intelligence agency, reportedly reaching out to Chinese officials in 2024 with an offer to share classified details about US military operations. Authorities confirmed that Martin D had worked for US forces “until recently.” The investigation is ongoing in “close coordination” with German intelligence services.
The governments of China and the United States have yet to comment on the arrest. This incident comes amid heightened concerns in Germany over potential espionage, particularly linked to Russia and China. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Berlin has reported increased spy activity from both nations. Tensions with China have also prompted Germany to intensify security protocols, especially for personnel in sensitive government and business sectors.
In recent months, Germany has seen multiple espionage cases involving China. In April, three German citizens were detained on suspicion of aiding China’s navy with technology transfers, while an EU staffer linked to a German far-right politician was accused of collaborating with Chinese intelligence.
These concerns are echoed across the West, with growing fears of alleged Chinese spying. In March, the US and the UK accused Beijing of cyber-espionage targeting millions, including government officials, academics, journalists, and defense contractors. China’s Foreign Ministry dismissed these accusations, calling them “hyped” efforts to damage China’s reputation.