Russia has announced the closure of German cultural centers, including Goethe-Institut facilities in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Yekaterinburg, as a retaliatory measure following Germany’s decision to shut down the Russian Consulate in Bonn and the Russian House cultural center in Berlin.
The escalation stems from Berlin’s accusations that Moscow was behind an attempted drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport last month, where an explosive-laden drone was discovered near a Ukrainian aircraft and defused. The airport serves as a major international freight hub for Ukraine support.
Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov emphasized that these closures are essential for upholding Russia’s self-respect, warning that Germany’s actions signify the end of its cultural presence in the country.
Moscow has rejected Western allegations of a state-sponsored sabotage campaign, with President Vladimir Putin dismissing the claims as distractions from Germany’s domestic issues and asserting that any evidence has been planted.
European Union ministers have discussed potential responses, including sanctions and visa restrictions, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas labeling the incident as state-sponsored terrorism. Germany has insisted it is not at war but faces daily hybrid threats, with Foreign Minister Johan Wadephul calling for Russia to engage in meaningful negotiations on Ukraine.
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