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Russia Closes German Consulate in St. Petersburg Amid Diplomatic Tensions
Confirmed
In Short: Russia has ordered the closure of the German consulate in St. Petersburg, a move that escalates tensions between the two countries amid Russia's war in Ukraine.
Moscow has ordered the closure of the German consulate in St. Petersburg, according to reports. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the consulate must cease operations by September 18.
Russia's Foreign Ministry stated that Germany has 'provoked a new round of escalation in bilateral relations' and bears 'full responsibility for the consequences.
The order represents a tit-for-tat move, following Germany's closure of Russia's consulate general in Bonn and the Russian House cultural center in Berlin, with staff ordered to leave Russia by Sunday.
Tensions between Berlin and Moscow have increased since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, with both countries accusing each other of various actions, including a failed drone attack on Leipzig Airport.
What's confirmed
What's still developing
- Lavrov said Berlin’s closure of Russia’s diplomatic institutions last week reminded him of events that preceded World War II, describing the measures as “absolutely unacceptable” and accusing Germany of wanting “war again”.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly condemned the West’s support for Ukraine.