Russia Sends German Diplomat Packing in Retaliatory Action

Russia has declared that a staff member of the German embassy in Moscow is persona non grata in retaliation for Germany's expulsion of a Russian diplomat from Berlin.

On Thursday, Russia’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement announcing that a representative of the German ambassador was summoned and notified of this decision.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul condemned the expulsion, describing it as "completely unacceptable" and baseless. He stated that the expelled staff member was part of the military attaché unit stationed at the embassy in Moscow.

Wadephul remarked that while German diplomats operate within legal frameworks, Russia engages in escalation and intelligence activities disguised as diplomacy, labeling the expulsion as a further unfriendly act from Moscow.

He assured that the German administration would firmly counter any Russian actions that threaten security and maintains the right to take additional steps if necessary.

The Russian Foreign Ministry connected its actions to a decision by the German government on January 22, which declared a staff member from the Russian embassy in Berlin persona non grata due to alleged espionage activities—a claim that Moscow has staunchly rejected.

In a statement, the ministry referred to the German government's actions as a "cheap provocation" aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the Russian diplomatic mission in Germany, asserting that Germany is fully responsible for the tensions in their bilateral relationship.

Previously, Germany's Foreign Office had summoned the Russian ambassador in Berlin to inform him that a diplomat accredited to the Russian embassy had been expelled due to involvement in espionage activities in Germany. Reports indicate that the diplomat in question held the position of deputy Russian military attaché.

The Foreign Office mandated that the individual leave the country immediately, making it clear that any espionage activities conducted within Germany would not be tolerated.

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[dpa/NAN

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