Reichsbürgerprozess: Former KSK soldier speaks about military action

Peter Wörner, former member of Germany’s elite special forces unit KSK, has testified in court in Frankfurt, describing his involvement with a group accused of planning a “military action.” The 58-year-old, who was arrested nearly three years ago and has been held in pretrial detention since May 2024, is among nine individuals facing charges of high treason and founding a terrorist organization. His testimony comes amid ongoing legal proceedings in multiple German courts, including in Munich and Stuttgart, where other members of the alleged group are being tried over their alleged role in plotting to overthrow the government. The case centers around claims that Wörner and others were part of a network that believed in the imminent intervention of a mysterious “Alliance” composed of military forces. According to prosecutors, this belief led to plans for a coordinated attack targeting key political institutions. Wörner described himself as a nature lover and animal enthusiast, emphasizing his preference for solitude and his aversion to conflict. However, he admitted to seeking guidance from a self-proclaimed psychic and an astrologist, both of whom had predicted major life changes for him in the coming years. In his testimony, Wörner denied any intent to commit violence, stating that all participants in the group sought only to help one another. He claimed that the group's actions were driven by a desire to expose corruption within the government and protect citizens from perceived threats such as mandatory vaccinations. He attributed the group’s growing belief in the “Alliance” to the influence of two central figures, Thomas T., a psychic he once trusted, and Hildegard L., an astrologist who had previously advised him. Both are charged in separate trials in Munich. Wörner’s account contrasts sharply with statements made by Thomas T., who appeared as a witness in the Munich trial. T. had initially supported Wörner’s involvement in the group, claiming that he had foreseen the soldier’s potential to take independent action. However, T. later expressed concern over Wörner’s violent tendencies, suggesting that he had anticipated the possibility of physical confrontation. Wörner dismissed these remarks as unfounded accusations, calling them a “bald-faced slander.” He further criticized the roles played by T. and Hildegard L., referring to them as “Rasputin” and “the great liar of Münchhausen,” respectively. These labels suggest that Wörner viewed them as manipulative leaders who used false information to steer the group toward increasingly radical beliefs. He argued that the group’s reliance on these individuals led to the spread of misleading narratives, particularly regarding military operations near the Reichstag building, which he claimed were based on supposed divine revelations. Wörner also referenced a YouTube video he uploaded in May 2021, in which he called for the removal of what he described as a corrupt political establishment. In the video, he suggested that a new governing body would emerge, backed by military support. He explained that this vision of a future “Alliance” was rooted in his interpretation of prophetic signs and his belief in the eventual collapse of current governance structures. He insisted that the video was intended to inspire hope among those fearing government overreach, rather than incite direct action. Prosecutors argue that the group’s activities constituted a clear threat to national security, citing evidence of planned attacks and communication networks. Meanwhile, Wörner maintains that his actions were motivated by a desire to challenge systemic injustice, not to engage in acts of violence. As the trial continues, the court must determine whether his claims align with the broader conspiracy outlined by authorities. The outcome could have significant implications for how Germany addresses domestic extremism and the boundaries of free speech in politically sensitive contexts.