Germany expels Russian diplomat over alleged espionage as security concerns intensify

Germany has expelled a Russian diplomat accused of espionage, underscoring growing concerns across Europe about heightened intelligence activity linked to Moscow since the start of the Ukraine war. The German foreign ministry announced on Thursday that the individual, a member of Russia’s diplomatic service, was asked to leave the country after authorities concluded he was operating beyond the bounds of diplomatic conduct.

In a statement posted on X, the foreign ministry said Berlin would not tolerate spying on its territory, particularly when carried out under the protection of diplomatic status. “The German government does not tolerate espionage in Germany – especially not under the guise of diplomatic status,” it said, confirming that the Russian ambassador had been summoned to formally inform him of the expulsion.

While German officials did not publicly name the diplomat, reports by Der Spiegel identified him as the deputy military attaché at the Russian Embassy in Berlin. According to the report, German security agencies believe he acted as a key handler for a German-Ukrainian woman recently arrested on suspicion of espionage.

Federal prosecutors said the woman, identified only as Ilona W in line with Germany’s strict privacy laws, was detained on Wednesday. Investigators allege she collected sensitive information related to drones intended for use by Ukraine, obtaining details at political events and through personal connections with former German defence ministry staff.

Prosecutors further stated that the woman had maintained intelligence contacts with the Russian Embassy in Berlin since at least November 2023. She was brought before an investigating judge on Thursday, as authorities continue to probe the scope of the alleged espionage network and the information that may have been passed on.

The Russian Embassy in Berlin did not immediately respond to requests for comment on either the expulsion or the arrest. Moscow has previously dismissed similar accusations by Western governments as politically motivated.

The move comes amid repeated warnings from European security services about increased Russian intelligence operations across the continent. Officials say such activities are aimed at undermining Western support for Ukraine following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Germany’s decision signals a tougher stance as Berlin aligns with broader European efforts to counter suspected foreign espionage.