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Zschäpe Testifies in Dresden Trial of Alleged NSU Aider, Shows Remorse but Stays Vague on Killings

Her testimony confirms the use of Susann E.’s identity and logistical help yet leaves open whether the accused knew about the racist murders.

Overview

  • Beate Zschäpe told the court she is ashamed and said she accepts her 2018 life sentence, but she offered no clear explanation for the NSU murders.
  • She confirmed using Susann E.’s personal data and health card for medical visits, travel and a police interview, and described E.’s role in helping collect a motorhome later tied to the NSU’s final robbery.
  • Zschäpe asserted that Susann E. did not know about the murders, while acknowledging E. learned of the trio’s bank robberies through others; prosecutors maintain E. knew of the killings by 2007.
  • A hearing was briefly halted after victim Mehmet Kubaşık’s daughter confronted Zschäpe and urged her to “tell the truth” about who supported the NSU.
  • The Dresden case, which opened in November, is scheduled for dozens of hearing days through mid‑2026 as the court examines alleged support networks and unresolved questions.