Police Chief Warns: Ukraine War Threatens German Security
Jochen Kopelke, the federal chairman of the Police Union (GdP), has raised concerns about the potential impact of the Ukraine war on domestic security in Germany. Speaking from North Rhine-Westphalia, Kopelke warned of the difficulty in preventing weapons from being smuggled, sold, or used by criminal gangs in Central Europe.
Kopelke cited cases in Sweden where firearms used by criminal gangs originated from Ukraine, expressing his fear that similar cases could emerge in Germany. He warned that weapons from Ukraine could reach Central Europe and be put to use in criminal circles.
To tackle these challenges, Kopelke proposed the use of the controversial US software Palantir. He suggested that it could help create almost 1,000 new police positions. However, he acknowledged the high cost of the software, with licenses amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars per year.
Kopelke also called for a faster confiscation of proceeds from criminal activities and a full burden of proof reversal. He proposed a division of seized assets between the justice system and the police to enhance efficiency.
Moreover, Kopelke noted a current project working on a European alternative to Palantir, emphasizing the need for Europe to remain committed to the rule of law and democratization.
Kopelke's warnings highlight the potential security threats posed by the Ukraine war to Germany and Central Europe. His proposals, including the use of Palantir and faster asset confiscation, aim to strengthen domestic security measures. The police union chief's call for a European alternative to Palantir underscores the importance of maintaining technological sovereignty and commitment to democratic values.
