A scandal has shaken the German Bundeswehr after reports of right-wing extremism, sexual misconduct, and drug abuse within Paratrooper Regiment 26 in Zweibrücken, Rhineland-Palatinate. Several soldiers have been dismissed, while prosecutors are investigating 19 others.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius described the incidents on Wednesday (December 30) as “shocking,” stressing that they represent a blatant violation of the Bundeswehr’s values. He emphasized that there is no place for extremism, sexual harassment, or drug use in the armed forces.
Pistorius criticized the initial handling of the reports by local leadership, noting that ignoring violations or failing to act decisively is unacceptable.
Army Inspector General Lieutenant General Christian Freuding has launched urgent measures, to be consolidated into an “Action Plan for Airborne Forces.” Pistorius outlined three key goals: full disclosure of all incidents, strict punishment of further violations, and restoring trust in local military leadership.
Sources - Agencies
