AfD Faces Legal Troubles Over Illegal Donations and Threatening Fine
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World
February 19, 2025 23:30
berlin - Germany's AfD party under scrutiny for illegal donations and a looming 7 million euro fine.
AfD Faces Legal Troubles Over Illegal Donations and Threatening Fine
As the German election approaches, AfD is embroiled in serious allegations, including suspicions of illegal donations. The issue of foreign influence in German elections is also in question, with AfD leader Alice Weidel insisting on adherence to donation rules.
The Federal Criminal Police Office and intelligence services in Austria are investigating AfD's receipt of over 2 million euros from Gerhard Dingler, an FPÖ official, for billboard purchases.
Further revelations show that Dingler was a frontman, and the funds actually came from controversial real estate billionaire Henning Conle, raising money laundering and fraud concerns. AfD had also received 100,000 euros from Switzerland through a frontman, leading to a 400,000 euro fine for illegal non-EU donations.
Allegations of support from Russia, Austria, Switzerland, and the US have surfaced, with claims of Kremlin bribes to AfD's EU candidate Maximilian Krah. Additionally, Trump advisor Elon Musk and Vice President JD Vance have shown support for AfD's Weidel.
Weidel's tax residence in Germany is under scrutiny, as her family resides in Switzerland. Questions about her actual residence and tax obligations remain unanswered. The controversy highlights the complex legal and ethical challenges facing AfD.