German intelligence services have opened a probe into a small cache of weapons hidden in a forest on the outskirts of Berlin, which they believe was set up for assassination missions on behalf of Russia.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that federal prosecutors are investigating a Romanian suspect on charges of espionage and “the preparation of a serious act of violence threatening the state.” He declined to confirm the cache’s Russian ties but said foreign involvement could not be ruled out.
Security officials have warned that Russian intelligence operations may target German defence industry leaders or opposition figures in exile, and this discovery is considered part of a broader threat assessment.
The cache, comprising two handguns and ammunition, was found by Berlin State police after information from domestic intelligence emerged in October of last year. Once inoperable, the stash has been under surveillance for months with no suspicious activity noted.
Dobrindt highlighted that several low‑level agents linked to Russian espionage have been detained this year, including one from Kazakhstan. In 2024, Russian plots to eliminate German political leaders, including an alleged plan targeting the head of the largest arms company, Rheinmetall, drew sharp criticism from Germany's political class.
German prosecutors are evaluating the Romanian suspect’s role in potential parcel bomb attacks there and considering extradition based on the seriousness of the threat. The continuing investigation illustrates the high‑level security vigilance Germany maintains against foreign assassination plots.
