It is known in intelligence circles that Russia holds large numbers of unofficial intelligence officers in Berlin.
The German government does not exclude the expulsion of a “significant number” of Russian diplomats suspected of conducting intelligence activities. On Friday, April 1, Suddeutsche Zeitung wrote, citing its own sources.
The publication reported that Foreign Ministry political director Terven Bellman, at a conference with his colleagues from G7 countries earlier this week, spoke about a “solution package” which may also include the removal of accreditation from Russian embassy employees.
“Germany could expel the same number of workers from Russian representations in the country as Belgium and the Netherlands did recently, that is, about 20,” the article said.
However, as noted by the media, the decision must be made by agreement between the chancellor’s office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of the Interior, but so far this is not possible.
“There are disagreements with the government,” the publication clarifies.
The article states that Russia holds a large number of unofficial intelligence officials in Berlin. However, the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) and the Office for the Protection of the Constitution believe they can control these employees. According to intelligence agencies, in recent weeks their action has been unreliable.
Berlin proceeds from the fact that the expulsion of Russian diplomats will lead to appropriate measures on the Russian side, which will significantly reduce the number of German diplomats in Russia.
Earlier in Germany, a Russian named Ilnur N. was arrested and later charged with espionage. He relayed information about the European Ariane space launch vehicle to Russian intelligence administrators.
The German government also decided to expel a Russian diplomat from the country on suspicion of espionage.
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Source: korrespondent
