A trial is set to begin in Stuttgart, Germany for individuals accused of plotting to overthrow the government and replace the chancellor. The group involved in the plot was well-organized and included individuals with military training. Despite the group’s eclectic membership, authorities believe that they posed a serious threat with their stockpile of weapons, cash, and explosives. The trial comes at a time when Germany is grappling with concerns about the rising far right in its politics and recent espionage cases involving Russia and China.
The accused in this case are part of a movement known as Reichsbürger, or citizens of the Reich. These individuals refuse to accept the modern German state, believing instead that it is controlled by a shadowy “Deep State.” What was once dismissed as harmless eccentricity took a darker turn in 2016 when a follower of the movement killed a police officer. While the authorities estimate the number of active Reichsbürger members to be around 23,000, experts suggest that the actual number is much higher. A significant portion of the German population is believed to be open to elements of the conspiracy-based ideology.
The coup plot was intended to begin with an attack on Germany’s Parliament, where Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his ministers would be captured and presented on national television to signal the regime change. The plan involved controlling Parliament and deploying homeland protection brigades to quell resistance and recruit soldiers loyal to the cause. The first trial in Stuttgart involves nine defendants accused of being part of the “military arm” of the plot. Charges include planning treasonous actions, joining a terrorist organization, and weapons offenses. The trial is expected to take years to prosecute due to its complexity.
The trial process has already garnered significant attention in Germany, with additional trials set to follow. Prince Reuss, his Russian girlfriend, and the group’s founders will face trial next month in Frankfurt. Another trial in Munich will involve eight defendants accused of serving as the coup’s leadership council. Due to the large number of participants and complexity of the case, special arrangements have been made, such as building a new temporary courtroom in Frankfurt. The legal process is expected to be lengthy and involve multiple defense lawyers, judges, and court officials.
