In brief
German intelligence has uncovered a cache of handguns and ammunition in a wooded area outside Berlin, believed to be prepared for assassinations on behalf of Russia. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said prosecutors are investigating a suspect in Romania linked to espionage and violent plots, though no confirmation of Russian ties was made. Security agencies warn of Russian plans to target German defence executives and exiled opposition figures, underscoring a high threat level for Germany. The cache, discovered in October, was rendered inoperable and monitored for months with no further activity. The investigation follows prior allegations, including a 2024 CNN report of a Russian plot to kill the head of Rheinmetall and a 2021 court case involving Vladimir Krasikov ordered by Moscow.
German intelligence has identified a cache of firearms and ammunition hidden in a forest outside Berlin that officials believe was intended for assassinations on behalf of Moscow.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt announced that federal prosecutors have a suspect in Romania under investigation for espionage and preparation of a serious act of violence, though he stopped short of confirming Russian involvement.
Dobrindt said that the weapons cache, discovered in October by Berlin State police in cooperation with domestic intelligence, consisted of two handguns and ammunition. The firearms have been rendered inoperable and the site was under surveillance for months without any approach from other parties.
He noted that national security agencies have warned that Russian intelligence is planning assassinations in Germany, targeting defence‑industry executives or exile opposition figures.
The investigation follows a series of Russian‑linked threats, including a 2024 CNN report on a plot to kill Rheinmetall’s head and a 2021 court case that jailed a Russian national for a murder allegedly ordered by Moscow.
Alexander Dobrindt, German Interior Minister, in a photo taken earlier this month.
