Germany has announced a series of retaliatory measures against Russia over what it described as an alleged Russian “hybrid attack” in Leipzig, including the closure of the Russian Consulate General in Bonn, tighter immigration controls for Russian nationals and increased pressure on Moscow’s shadow fleet.
German Foreign Minister Wadephul announced the measures at a joint press conference with Interior Minister Dobrindt, accusing Russia of a sustained campaign aimed at destabilising, spreading disinformation, threatening and sabotaging European countries.
Wadephul said the alleged attack in Leipzig represented a deliberate decision by the Russian leadership to further damage already strained relations between both countries.
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“Russia’s leadership has instead made a conscious decision to inflict further significant damage on our bilateral relations, which are already under tremendous strain,” he said.
He said Germany remained secure and was taking action against Russia as the alleged perpetrator of the hybrid attack, adding that Berlin would work closely with its NATO and European Union partners to prevent further hybrid operations in Germany and Europe.
Under the new measures, Germany will close the Russian Consulate General in Bonn effective September 18 and terminate the lease for the Russian House in Berlin.
The government will also propose new EU listings targeting Russian individuals in connection with hybrid attacks and tighten immigration controls for Russian nationals.
Germany will further step up pressure on Russia’s shadow fleet and take additional measures in the intelligence sector, while continuing efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities and deterrence within NATO.
Wadephul said the German government would maintain its civilian and military support for Ukraine, arguing that the Leipzig incident underscored the need for stronger European security measures.
As part of the diplomatic response, the German government has ordered the Russian ambassador to be summoned and notified Russia of its position through the appropriate diplomatic channels.
The Foreign Minister said Germany would remain committed to unity with its NATO and EU partners and would not allow itself to be intimidated or divided by Russian attacks.
He also reaffirmed Berlin’s support for Ukraine, saying Germany would continue to stand with the country in its efforts to defend itself against Russia’s war of aggression.