Deutsches Kulturinstitut: Lawrow: Goethe-Institut in Russland wird geschlossen

Moscow is reportedly planning to close the Goethe-Institut in Russia, according to Foreign Minister Sergei Lawrow, as a response to the announced closure of the Russian House in Berlin, reported Interfax news agency. This comes after the German government announced the closure of the Russian House at Leipzig/Halle Airport due to a found explosive drone threat.

Berlin attributes the incident to Moscow for potentially causing a terrorist attack. The Goethe-Institut operates alongside other cultural institutions in St. Petersburg and Yekaterinburg, with Lawrow stating that the closure is in retaliation for Berlin's actions. Despite tensions between the two nations over Russia's war in Ukraine, the institute has managed to continue its work, said Lawrow.

The Goethe-Institute remains one of the few remaining German entities operating in Russia. Russia has declared numerous foundations and organizations undesirable, effectively barring their activity. The day before the news, Moscow appointed the leader of the German Embassy in Moscow to protest Berlin's sanctions following the explosive drone incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport, according to the ministry.

Russia denies any connection to the drone incident at the Leipzig airport, calling it an "outright fabrication" by Berlin aiming to undermine bilateral relations. Moscow has vowed a harsh response to the German government's actions, threatening further closures, including potentially the General Consulate in St. Petersburg. Both sides have previously shut down consulates as part of their sanctions against each other.

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul have accused Russia of responsibility for the drone incident and announced punitive measures, with Wadephul stating that the Russian consulate in Bonn may also be closed.