The Russian consulate in Bonn may have been a hub for espionage operations
The Russian Consulate General in Bonn may have been used as a hub for Russian intelligence activities and hybrid operations in Europe.
According to Bild, approximately 15–20 Russian agents may have been working at the diplomatic mission, effectively acting on behalf of the SVR, FSB, and GRU.
According to the publication, the consulate was used to coordinate hybrid campaigns against the Benelux countries, EU institutions, and NATO headquarters in Belgium.
The alleged intelligence activities were one of the reasons behind Germany’s decision to close the consulate. The move is also seen as a response to Russia’s attempt to carry out a sabotage operation at Leipzig Airport, where a Ukrainian plane was located.
Source: Bild.
Germany will terminate the agreement under which the Russian House on Friedrichstrasse in Berlin operates. This was announced by Foreign Minister Johann Wadepuhl. The decision is one of several measures in response to the attempted drone attack on Leipzig/Halle Airport on August 4, which German authorities link to Russia.
The German governing coalition is discussing the possibility of closing the Russian state cultural center “Russian House” in Berlin. The discussion intensified following the drone incident at Leipzig Airport, which German authorities view as a possible part of Russia’s hybrid activities.
