Newsletters
Germany on Wednesday strongly denied allegations circulated by Russian intelligence circles that it was secretly conducting nuclear weapons research, describing the claim as part of a Russian propaganda and disinformation campaign.
“The German government views this statement as part of the usual Russian propaganda,” deputy government spokesman Steffen Meyer told a news conference in Berlin.
The allegations were reportedly circulated through messaging applications.
Meyer said Russia was using public concerns about nuclear weapons that it had repeatedly fueled through what he called irresponsible statements.
He said the allegations were intended to divide NATO and the European Union, damage Germany’s reputation as Ukraine’s strongest supporter and increase fears of a nuclear arms buildup.
“First, it is attempting to drive a wedge between NATO and the European Union; second, it is trying to discredit Germany as Ukraine’s strongest supporter; and third, it is attempting to stoke fears of nuclear arms buildup,” Meyer said.
Meyer suggested the allegations were part of a Russian disinformation campaign ahead of key regional elections in Germany.
“The fact that Germany, in particular, is being targeted by this kind of misinformation is likely also related to our domestic political situation ahead of the elections,” he said.
Meyer reiterated that Germany does not seek to develop its own nuclear weapons.
“Germany does not seek to develop a national nuclear armament,” he said.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
1 min read
