Russia Expels German Diplomat Amidst Berlin’s ‘Spy Mania’ Accusations

MOSCOW: Russia expelled a German diplomat on Thursday in response to Germany’s “groundless” expulsion of a Russian diplomat last month. Moscow claimed the German accusations were a low-level provocation aimed at stoking “spy mania” within Germany, stating that claims against the expelled Russian diplomat were false and fabricated.

In an official statement, Russia asserted: “The unsubstantiated accusations of espionage brought against him by the official Berlin authorities are completely groundless and fabricated in the spirit of the ‘spy mania’ being whipped up in Germany by the German authorities.”

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul criticized Moscow’s decision, stating it was “completely unfounded and totally unacceptable.” He added that Germany “reserves the right to take further action,” noting the diplomat was part of the German Embassy’s military attaché staff.

Across Europe, security agencies have warned about an escalating threat from Russian intelligence. Reports suggest Russia is seeking to discourage Western support for Ukraine, a stance supported by European intelligence officials who describe it as part of a sabotage campaign across the continent.

Earlier this week, Britain also expelled a Russian diplomat in a reciprocal move following Moscow’s expulsion of a British diplomat last month. The British government accused the expelled Russian official of being an undeclared spy.

Moscow has denied any involvement in Western intelligence assessments of sabotage and espionage campaigns.