German security authorities are investigating a suspected Russian intelligence connection after discovering a concealed weapons cache in a forest near Berlin.
The professionally prepared hideout reportedly contained two functioning firearms along with other sensitive materials. German media reports say investigators are examining whether the site was established for use by Russian intelligence operatives.
Germany’s domestic intelligence service, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), reportedly believes the location may have served as a so-called “dead drop” — a concealed place where agents can leave weapons, documents or other materials for another operative to collect without meeting directly.
The discovery has raised concerns that the weapons could have been intended for individuals carrying out operations on behalf of Moscow. German investigators are particularly examining the possibility of so-called “kinetic operations”, referring to acts involving physical violence or sabotage.
The case comes amid growing warnings from German security officials about Russian espionage and covert activity.
BfV chief Sinan Selen has previously warned that potential targets could include defence industry executives, Russian opposition figures living abroad and people supporting Ukraine.
Russian embassy remains silent
The Russian embassy has so far not responded to questions from German media about the alleged weapons cache.
Moscow has previously rejected similar accusations, dismissing claims of Russian hybrid operations in Germany as conspiracy theories.
The investigation is now focused on determining who established the hideout, who had access to it and whether the weapons were intended for a planned operation on German territory.
