Germany investigates Russia links to weapons cache discovered in woods, reports say
German authorities are investigating a weapons cache found near Berlin, which intelligence officials suspect was intended for Russian-backed assassinations. A suspect is currently being held in Romania in connection with related espionage and violence charges.
Why it matters
The discovery highlights the heightened threat of foreign-led sabotage and political violence within European borders, straining international relations.
Image source, Getty Images By Bethany Bell Germany reporter Published 18 minutes ago German intelligence believes a cache of guns found in the woods near Berlin last year was for carrying out assassinations on behalf of Russia, reports say.
Germany's Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said federal prosecutors were investigating a suspect in Romania over suspicions of espionage and "the preparation of a serious act of violence threatening the state".
While refusing to confirm reports of Russian links to the cache, Dobrindt said he could not rule out "the involvement of foreign powers".
For months security agencies have warned that Russian intelligence services are planning assassinations in Germany, possibly targeting defence industry executives or opposition figures in exile.
Image source, EPA Image caption, Alexander Dobrindt, in a photo taken earlier this month
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