Teenagers arrested for plotting attacks in Germany

In Germany, police arrested five teenagers in connection with a far-right group called "Last Defense Wave." These arrests occurred on the morning of May 21, 2025, as part of a broader crackdown on political violence and domestic terrorism. The individuals involved, all between the ages of 14 and 18, are suspected of attempting to destabilize the country by instigating violent acts against migrants and political opponents. The group was reportedly formed in mid-April 2024 and has gained notoriety for its extremist ideology and planned attacks on vulnerable communities. The arrests followed earlier incidents that raised alarms about the growing influence of right-wing extremism among youth. In October, some members of the group set fire to a cultural center in Altdöbern, while in January, others attempted to ignite a fire at a home for asylum-seekers. Prosecutors stated that the group's members sought to portray themselves as defenders of the "German nation," viewing attacks on asylum-seekers and anti-fascist facilities as justified actions. This alarming narrative reflects a broader trend, as Germany faces a surge in politically motivated violent crimes, up over 15% from the previous year. The Justice Minister of Germany, Stefanie Hubig, deemed the collaboration of minors in such extreme acts as particularly shocking, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness surrounding right-wing radicalism. The recent arrests highlight the potential dangers of ideological indoctrination among young individuals, especially as they represent a larger societal issue concerning the recruitment strategies employed by extremist groups. Moreover, these developments reflect ongoing challenges faced by German authorities in maintaining public safety and upholding democratic values against the backdrop of rising extremism. Additionally, the current landscape points to a situation where societal divisions may be exacerbated, prompting discussions about the responsibility of communities to combat hate and violence. As the investigation continues, authorities are also looking into other individuals who may have connections to the arrested group members, potentially widening the scope of their inquiry into far-right terrorism in the country.