In brief
German security services say they uncovered a small cache of guns concealed in a wooded area near Berlin, believing it was intended for Russian‑backed assassination attempts. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt confirmed prosecutors are investigating a suspect in Romania linked to espionage and bomb threats. While official statements do not conclusively tie the cache to Russian operatives, authorities remain wary of foreign involvement and have placed the site under prolonged surveillance. The discovery follows earlier allegations of Russian plots against German officials and arms industry leaders. The probe underscores Germany’s heightened security posture amid increasing reports of Russian targeted violence overseas.
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.
