Moscow: Russia said on Monday it was closing down the German Consulate-General in St. Petersburg in retaliation for Berlin's decision to close the Russian consulate in Bonn and a Russian cultural centre in Berlin.Germany took its own measures after accusing Moscow of an attempted drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport, an allegation Russia called an absurd fabrication.Read more: Germany 'wants war again', Russia FM says, dismissing drone accusationsThe Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the German consulate in St. Petersburg must cease operations no later than September 18.It also confirmed that Germany's Goethe-Institut cultural centres in Russia must cease their activities, with staff ordered to leave the country by September 13 at the latest.Read more: Russia's Lavrov calls accusations of Moscow's involvement in Leipzig drone incident 'start of real war'"It was the German authorities who, once again, provoked a new round of escalation in bilateral relations. The German government bears full and complete responsibility for the consequences," Russia's Foreign Ministry said.
Russia closes German consulate in St Petersburg after drone spat
Russia is closing its German consulate in St. Petersburg. This action follows Germany's closure of a Russian consulate and cultural center. Germany had accused Moscow of an attempted drone attack, which Russia denied. Russian cultural centers in Russia must also cease their activities. German authorities are responsible for this escalation in bilateral relations.
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