Germany investigates Russia links to weapons cache discovered in woods, reports say

German officials are probing a weapons cache discovered in the woods near Berlin last year, with intelligence suggesting the arms were intended for assassination plots on behalf of Russia, according to reports. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that federal prosecutors are investigating a Romanian suspect suspected of espionage and preparation of violent acts against the state. While Dobrindt could not confirm Russian involvement, he acknowledged that foreign powers could be implicated.

Security agencies have long warned of Russian plans to carry out assassinations in Germany, potentially targeting defense industry executives or opposition figures in exile. In October, Germany's domestic intelligence agency became aware of the potential weapons cache in the Berlin area and, with help from the Berlin State police, found two handguns and ammunition. The German security authorities believe the weapons were meant to be used in targeted killings ordered by Moscow.

After rendering the guns inoperable, the cache was placed under surveillance for months, with no suspicious activity observed. The minister emphasized that this case indicates a high threat level Germany faces. Prosecutors are currently investigating the Romanian suspect, who is held in connection with planned parcel bomb attacks in Romania. Dobrindt described the suspect as a low-level agent, declining to disclose his nationality. Several similar operatives were detained this year, including one from Kazakhstan.

The investigation stems from previous accusations of Russian attacks on German soil. In 2024, German political figures expressed outrage over a CNN report alleging that Russia had plotted to kill the head of Germany's largest arms company, Armin Papperger. In 2021, a German court sentenced Russian national Vadim Krasikov to life in prison for a murder in a Berlin park, which Moscow allegedly ordered. Krasikov was later released in a prisoner swap.