German security authorities discovered a stash of handguns hidden in a forest near Berlin that they believe was intended for assassinations on behalf of Russian intelligence, according to German media reports. Germany is now seeking to extradite a suspect from Romania.
Key facts
- Handguns were found stashed in a forest near Berlin last year, according to Süddeutsche Zeitung.
- German authorities believe the weapons were to be used to carry out assassinations for Russian intelligence.
- Germany is seeking to extradite a suspect from Romania over the discovery.
- Federal prosecutors opened an investigation on suspicion of preparing a serious act of violence that threatens national security.
- The Russian embassy did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
German security authorities discovered handguns stashed in a forest near Berlin last year that they believe were intended for use in assassinations on behalf of Russian intelligence, Süddeutsche Zeitung reported on Friday.
The Guardian reported that Germany is seeking to extradite a suspect from Romania over the discovery of the underground weapons cache, which German media reports have linked to Russian intelligence.
The German interior minister, Alexander Dobrindt, confirmed that federal prosecutors had opened an investigation related to the secret cache of guns on suspicion of preparing a serious act of violence that threatens national security.
According to the Guardian, the development came two weeks after German authorities found a drone carrying explosives at Leipzig airport.
The Russian embassy did not immediately respond to a request for comment, the Guardian reported.
The reports centre on fears that the weapons could have been used in assassinations, though details about the identity of the suspect and the full scope of the investigation were not disclosed in the reports.
Why it matters
The discovery adds to growing concerns in Europe about alleged covert Russian activity on Western soil, including plots that could threaten national security. For readers, it underscores heightened tensions between Germany and Russia and the pressure on European authorities to respond to suspected sabotage and violence.
Frequently asked questions
Where were the guns found?
According to Süddeutsche Zeitung, the handguns were found stashed in a forest near Berlin last year.
What do German authorities believe the weapons were for?
German authorities believe the handguns were to be used to carry out assassinations on behalf of Russian intelligence, according to the reports.
Is anyone being pursued in connection with the case?
Germany is seeking to extradite a suspect from Romania over the discovery, and federal prosecutors have opened an investigation into suspicion of preparing a serious act of violence that threatens national security.