Russia closes German consulate in St. Petersburg and expels staff

Russia has ordered the closure of Germany's Consulate General in St. Petersburg and the expulsion of all its staff. The consulate must cease operations by September 18, with all employees required to leave Russia by that date. The Russian Foreign Ministry framed the move as a response to Germany's closure of Russia's consulate in Bonn and the Russian House in Berlin. Moscow accused Berlin of provoking a new escalation in bilateral relations and placed responsibility for the consequences on the German government. Additionally, Russia is shutting down Goethe cultural centers, giving them until September 13 to halt activities. The dispute stems from Germany's accusations that Russia attempted sabotage at Leipzig airport, which prompted Berlin's initial closures.