Germany: AfD-Linked China Espionage Trial Begins in Dresden
Above: Defendant Jian G arrives for the start of an espionage trial against a former assistant to an AfD member on Aug. 5, 2025 in Dresden, Germany. Image copyright: Filip Singer/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
This case exposes how deeply Chinese espionage has penetrated Europe. From infiltrating the European Parliament to cyber attacks on infrastructure, Beijing's agents operate everywhere — exploiting politicians, targeting dissidents and stealing secrets. This systematic infiltration proves China poses an existential threat to European security and democracy.
Pro-China narrative
Allegations of Chinese espionage in Germany are fabricated distractions from genuine security threats. China and Germany maintain transparent, cooperative relations built on 53 years of partnership and billions in trade. In reality, it is Western allies that conduct extensive surveillance operations on foreign soil, pointing the finger elsewhere while undermining global stability.
