Germany has ordered the closure of the Russian consulate-general in Saint Petersburg by September 18, according to the German government, following accusations that Moscow attempted a drone attack on the Leipzig/Halle airport.
Sabotage Allegations and Airport Incident
The diplomatic crisis stems from an incident in early August, when German authorities discovered a drone equipped with explosives near a Ukrainian cargo plane at the Leipzig/Halle airport. According to official statements from Berlin, investigators view the device as part of a broader Russian sabotage campaign targeting critical infrastructure across Europe.
Moscow has strongly rejected the accusations. In an official statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry dismissed the drone allegations as an “absurd fabrication,” pushing back against the findings of German security services.
Consulate Closures and Retaliatory Measures
In response to the actions taken by Berlin, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that the German consulate-general in Saint Petersburg must cease operations no later than September 18. This move follows earlier Russian restrictions targeting German cultural institutions operating within the country.
Did you know? Russia previously ordered the closure of Goethe-Institut cultural centers in both of its largest cities, effectively dismantling the local network of German language and cultural facilities.
Confirming the cultural shutdown, the Russian Foreign Ministry stated that the Goethe-Institut network is no longer permitted to operate in Russia. Staff members affiliated with the cultural centers have been ordered to leave the country by September 13.
Blame and Bilateral Fallout
According to the Russian Foreign Ministry’s published statement, “Specifically, German authorities once again provoked a new round of escalation in bilateral relations. The German government bears full and complete responsibility for the consequences.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When must the German consulate in Saint Petersburg close?
According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the German consulate-general in Saint Petersburg must cease operations by September 18.
What triggered the latest diplomatic expulsions between Germany and Russia?
Germany acted after accusing Moscow of attempting a drone attack on the Leipzig/Halle airport in early August, where an explosives-equipped drone was found near a Ukrainian cargo plane.
What is the status of German cultural centers in Russia?
The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed that the Goethe-Institut network is barred from continuing operations, and staff members were ordered to leave the country by September 13.
How has Moscow responded to the drone attack allegations?
The Russian Foreign Ministry labeled the allegations of a planned drone attack on the airport an absurd fabrication.
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