AfD Leader Links Arms Plant to Deportation Drive

Ulrich Siegmund, the likely leader of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in Saxony-Anhalt, said the party could support arms production in the state because it might provide resources for planned “repatriation and deportation campaigns.” His comments concerned a possible Elbit Systems facility in Sangerhausen, which would reportedly manufacture defense components rather than complete weapons, drones or artillery shells and could create up to 400 jobs. The AfD opposes Germany’s increased defense spending and military support for Ukraine while advocating closer ties with Russia, making Siegmund’s position appear at odds with the party’s broader stance. German politicians have condemned the remarks, while the AfD’s deportation plans would face major legal and constitutional obstacles because migration policy is controlled primarily by the federal government. It also remains uncertain whether the AfD can form a state government, as mainstream parties have ruled out cooperation despite its strong election result.