Germany has ordered the expulsion of a Russian diplomat suspected of having contact with a woman arrested on espionage charges, marking a further escalation in already tense relations between Berlin and Moscow.
In a statement published on X, the German Foreign Ministry said that Germany will not tolerate espionage on its territory, particularly under the cover of diplomatic status.
“Today, we summoned the Russian ambassador and informed him of the expulsion of the individual involved in espionage activities for Russia,” the ministry said.
Russian Reaction
The Russian Embassy in Germany responded swiftly, warning that the expulsion would not go unanswered. Moscow accused Berlin of deliberately escalating bilateral relations using “clearly fabricated pretexts,” according to statements reported by Reuters.
Background of the Case
Tensions between the two countries have intensified since Russia’s war in Ukraine, with Germany—a NATO member and key supporter of Kyiv—repeatedly accusing Moscow of drone surveillance, sabotage, and disinformation campaigns.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, speaking during a visit to Ethiopia, said the case made it clear that:
“This was a hostile act, and intelligence activities in our country are completely unacceptable, especially under the guise of diplomacy.”
He confirmed that the diplomat was declared persona non grata with immediate effect, stressing that Russia’s aggressive actions carry consequences.
Arrest of Alleged Spy
The case came to light a day earlier when Berlin police arrested a woman of German-Ukrainian origin, partially identified as Ilona V., on suspicion of spying for Russia.
According to investigators, she allegedly used personal connections with current and former employees of Germany’s Defense Ministry to gather sensitive information, including:
- Military aid to Ukraine
- Germany’s arms industry
- Drone testing sites
- Other classified security matters
She is also accused of helping her Russian handler use a false identity to attend political events in Berlin and establish influential contacts.
GRU Involvement
German magazine Der Spiegel reported that her handler was a Russian military intelligence (GRU) officer, officially serving as deputy military attaché at the Russian embassy. The officer, partially identified as Andrey M., has reportedly been ordered to leave Germany within 72 hours.
The incident underscores Germany’s heightened vigilance against foreign intelligence operations and reflects Europe’s growing security concerns amid Russia’s hybrid warfare tactics.
