In a press conference in Magdeburg, Ulrich Siegmund – the Alternative for Germany (AfD) figure expected to lead the eastern state of Saxony‑Anhalt – outlined the party’s openness to an arms‑production facility in the city of Sangerhausen. Siegmund said the AfD would not oppose the manufacturing of military equipment if it helps provide the resources needed for the party’s planned deportation and repatriation campaigns.
Proposed benefits for the region
Local broadcaster MDR reported that Israeli‑based Elbit Systems is in discussions about building a plant in Sangerhausen to produce components for German defense firms. City officials clarified that the site would not produce complete weapons systems, drones, or artillery shells, but could create as many as 400 jobs for local residents.
Elbit Systems Deutschland responded to Reuters that it continuously evaluates expansion opportunities in Germany, though no specific locations have been selected yet. The company highlighted its long‑standing partnership in the country, noting that it operates at several sites, employs hundreds of German workers, and is committed to strengthening its industrial presence.
AfD’s policy stance
The AfD, which brands itself as a “party of peace” and seeks to restore ties with Russia, opposes Germany’s current defence‑spending levels under Chancellor Friedrich Merz and the nation’s military support for Ukraine. The party has pledged immediate deportations of illegal immigrants, citizen patrols, and separate classrooms for refugee children as part of its platform.
Siegmund said the party will closely monitor what is produced at the Sangerhausen site and under what conditions, emphasizing that the initiative must not draw Germany into foreign conflicts. He framed the potential plant as serving internal security, stability, and national defence.
Political implications
The AfD’s push for the plant comes as it seeks to form a state government after a historic election win that fell just short of an outright majority. Cooperation with the left‑wing populist BSW – the only party that has not ruled out working with the AfD – could be affected by any backing of the project. The BSW, which also opposes German military aid to Ukraine, has campaigned against the Sangerhausen initiative, rejecting the economic arguments for attracting foreign defence manufacturers.
Both parties share a skepticism of Germany’s involvement in the Ukraine conflict, but the AfD’s explicit link between arms production and its deportation agenda marks a distinct policy direction that will shape coalition negotiations.
Community response
Residents of Sangerhausen have expressed mixed reactions. Some welcome the prospect of job creation in a region facing economic challenges, while others worry about the moral and security implications of linking local industry to a deportation drive.
Local officials have not yet taken a formal position on the proposal, noting that any decision will require thorough assessment of environmental, economic, and security factors.
Next steps
The discussion about the plant is expected to continue as the AfD finalizes its coalition strategy. Stakeholders, including the city council, regional economic development agencies, and community groups, will likely be consulted before any final agreement is reached.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
