"Probe Launched into German Ex-Spy Chief for Right-Wing Extremism"

Hans-Georg Maassen, a former German intelligence chief, is under investigation for suspected right-wing extremism by the agency he once led. The investigation cites his apparent belief in far-right and antisemitic conspiracy theories, anti-migrant rhetoric, and alleged sympathy for the far-right Reichsbürger movement. Maassen's new right-wing political party, the Values Union, has expressed willingness to work with the far-right AfD, breaking the longstanding taboo against cooperation with the radical right in German politics. This has sparked mass demonstrations across Germany, with protesters calling for a "firewall" against the far right.