Russia threatened Germany with a response over consulate closure

Russia promised to take retaliatory measures after Germany's decision to close the Russian Consulate General in Bonn and shut down the "Russian House" in Berlin. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Berlin will receive a "fitting response".

According to her, the Russian consulate and the "Russian House" had long been a source of discontent for German authorities, and the accusations of Moscow's involvement in sabotage at Leipzig/Halle Airport served as a pretext for their closure.

"Both the 'Russian House' and our Consulate General in Bonn have long been an annoyance to the ruling elite. Now they've invented a pretext. Well then—they'll get a fitting response", — Zakharova said.

The Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson also rejected Germany's accusations of Moscow's involvement in the Leipzig incident, calling them unproven. Zakharova did not specify what exact retaliatory measures Russia plans to take against Germany.

Earlier on September 1, the German government stated that it considers Russia responsible for an attempted attack using an explosive-laden drone at Leipzig/Halle Airport on August 4. The drone was discovered near a Ukrainian cargo plane. German authorities said investigation results and intelligence data point to Russian involvement.

In response, Berlin decided to close the last Russian Consulate General in Germany—the mission in Bonn must cease operations by September 18. Germany will also terminate the agreement under which the "Russian House" operates in Berlin.

In addition, German authorities intend to strengthen border controls regarding Russian citizens, continue pressure on the Russian "shadow fleet", and push for new individuals to be added to EU sanctions lists. The Russian ambassador was summoned to the German Foreign Ministry.

Based on materials from: TASS