German military advises troops to avoid uniform during Erfurt AfD protest

The Bundeswehr issued special behavioral guidance for soldiers who planned to spend the weekend in Erfurt for the AfD party congress. Citing security authorities' warning of up to 35,000‑50,000 demonstrators – including an estimated 2,500 left‑wing extremists – the military told personnel to refrain from wearing uniforms in public, avoid visible Bundeswehr insignia such as backpacks, patches or shirts, and minimize train travel through the region. Service vehicles were also ordered not to be left in the city. Soldiers were instructed to contact police immediately if they felt threatened.

Police estimates indicated around 20,000 protestors were present on Saturday, prompting the heightened precautionary measures.