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Army Inspector to Brief Bundestag on Paratrooper Scandal as Leaders Cite Systemic Failures

The scandal now threatens the Bundeswehr’s recruitment efforts.

Overview

  • The Bundestag’s Defense Committee convenes Wednesday for a closed briefing by Army Inspector Lt. Gen. Christian Freuding on the Zweibrücken case.
  • Military and civilian authorities are investigating 55 members of Fallschirmjägerregiment 26 over alleged right‑wing extremism, sexualized misconduct, and drug offenses.
  • Disciplinary actions include three dismissals, with proceedings initiated to dismiss 19 additional soldiers, alongside ongoing criminal probes.
  • The inquiry began after female soldiers reported misconduct to the parliamentary armed forces ombudsman in June.
  • Committee chair Thomas Röwekamp warns of leadership failures and recruitment risks, while ombudsman Henning Otte urges stricter supervision and stronger Innere Führung.