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

German authorities are probing a weapons cache discovered in the woods near Berlin, with intelligence suggesting the munitions were intended for assassinations ordered by Russia, according to reports. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that federal prosecutors are examining a suspect in Romania suspected of espionage and preparing violent acts against the state. While Dobrindt would not confirm Russian involvement, he acknowledged foreign powers could be implicated.

Security agencies have long warned of Russian plans to assassinate targets in Germany, including defense industry executives and exiles. In October, Germany's domestic intelligence agency learned of a possible weapons cache on the outskirts of Berlin. The stash, comprised of two handguns and ammunition, was located with help from Berlin State police. The German security services suspect these weapons were prepared for targeted killings on behalf of Moscow.

Dobrindt noted that after rendering the guns inoperable, the cache was under surveillance for months but no suspicious activity was detected. The case highlights the high threat level Germany currently faces. The minister indicated prosecutors are investigating the Romanian suspect, currently held, in connection with planned parcel bomb attacks.

This suspect is described as a low-level agent, with his nationality not disclosed. Several similar operatives have been detained in Germany this year, including one from Kazakhstan.

The investigation stems from previous accusations of Russian attacks on German soil. In 2024, Russian plans to kill the head of Germany's largest arms company, Armin Papperger, sparked outrage among political figures. In 2021, a German court sentenced Russian national Vadim Krasikov to life in prison for a murder in a Berlin park, ordering the crime from Moscow. Krasikov was later released in a prisoner swap.