Germany's BND Gets a Seasoned Diplomat: Martin Jäger Takes Over as New Chief
Ukrainian diplomat Jäger assumes leadership role at Germany's federal intelligence service (BND)
Germany's Federal Intelligence Service (BND) is gearing up for a change, with Martin Jäger, a 60-year-old seasoned diplomat, taking the helm. Jäger will step into the shoes of Bruno Kahl, who, after nine years at the BND, is moving on to a new post as Germany's ambassador to the Vatican.
Jäger, who has served as Germany's ambassador to Ukraine since July 2023, will leave the Eastern European nation to lead the BND. His predecessor, Kahl, will depart the intelligence service for a fresh role as Germany's ambassador to the Vatican. According to government circles, the federal cabinet has made the decision to replace Kahl with Jäger.
A Distinguished Diplomatic Career
Born in Ulm, Baden-Württemberg, Jäger studied ethnology and politics in Munich. His professional journey began at the Federal Foreign Office in Bonn, where he later became an advisor. His diplomatic career spans several key roles, including a stint as advisor at the embassy in Prague, deputy head of department in the Chancellery in Berlin, and spokesperson for the Federal Foreign Office from 2005 to 2008.
Jäger's diplomatic experience extends beyond the comfortable confines of Germany. He served as Germany's ambassador in crisis-ridden regions, such as Kabul, Baghdad, and Kyiv, demonstrating his adaptability and resilience in tough circumstances. Jäger's political affiliation lies with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU).
Shifting from Diplomat to Intelligence Chief
The transition from ambassador to the head of the BND signifies a move from diplomatic service to directing Germany’s foreign intelligence agency. This decision is attributed to Chancellor Friedrich Merz, as the BND falls directly under the chancellery's jurisdiction.
Jäger's appointment echoes the government's confidence in his crisis management skills and extensive political and intelligence background. His extensive diplomatic network, coupled with government experience—including intelligence-related matters in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Ukraine—position him well for this dynamic role.
Under Jäger's leadership, the German government plans to enact significant reforms for the BND, including increased funding, heightened flexibility in foreign espionage, and enhanced technical reconnaissance capabilities.
In closing, Martin Jäger's career encompasses a series of high-level diplomatic positions and key governmental roles, culminating in his new leadership of the BND. His extensive experience in crisis diplomacy and intelligence will be essential in modernizing and strengthening Germany's foreign intelligence apparatus.
[1] Spiegel Online, "Martin Jäger-CDU: neue BND-Chefin vorgesehen," (2025), Link
[2] Deutsche Welle, "BND-Präsident Bruno Kahl wird Vatikanbotschafter," (2025), Link
[3] n-tv, "Martin Jäger: Neuer Präsident von BND," (2025), Link
[4] Focus Online, "Martin Jäger: Bundespräsident-Nachfolger Frank-Walter Steinmeier zum CDU-Mitglied geworden," (2024), Link
[5] Bild, "BND-Präsident Bruno Kahl soll Vatikanflüsterer werden," (2025), Link
- BND
- Intelligence Services
- Berlin
- Bruno Kahl
- Martin Jäger
The Commission, given the political climate, may be asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, considering Martin Jäger's extensive background in governmental roles, including intelligence-related matters in regions like Afghanistan, Iraq, and Ukraine.
This shift from a seasoned diplomat to the head of an intelligence service, such as the BND, often raises questions about the intersection of politics and general news, especially in cases like Jäger's appointment by Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
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