A German general was expelled from NATO’s headquarters in Brussels after being accused of mishandling classified documents. Although both Berlin and NATO have declined to provide details, it is reported that the general was removed from his post in December 2024, with access to sensitive materials being revoked.
The general, who had held a senior position within NATO, is suspected of improperly storing classified documents, including those labeled “VS-secret”, in his office. There is no evidence of espionage at this time, though the German Federal Military Counterintelligence Service (BAMAD) is investigating the incident.
NATO and the German Ministry of Defense have refused to comment further, citing data protection and personal privacy. It is also noted that the general is expected to retire early at the end of the month, which could prevent any urgent disciplinary action.
This incident follows previous controversies within the Bundeswehr, including a 2024 security breach where Russian intelligence intercepted a confidential video call involving senior German officers. The German Air Force personnel involved in that incident were fined but faced no criminal charges.
This new case has raised questions about NATO’s ability to secure critical military information and the potential risks of insider mishandling of such materials.
