Russia Revokes Consent for German Consulate in Novosibirsk Amid Diplomatic Tensions

In response to the closure of Russian diplomatic facilities in Germany, Russia has revoked its consent for the German Consulate General in Novosibirsk to operate. All consulate activities must cease, and staff must depart by September 18, 2024. This escalation follows recent German accusations of a foiled drone strike at Leipzig Airport and continues a trend of deteriorating relations between the two countries over the Ukraine conflict. The Russia n Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced Monday that it is revoking its consent for the operation of the German Consulate General in Novosibirsk. The consulate must cease all activities by September 18, 2024, and all staff are expected to leave the country by that date. This decision follows the closure of the Russian Consulate General in Bonn and the Russian House of Science and Culture in Berlin by the German government, as well as the forced closure of Germany's Goethe-Institut centers in Russia. The ministry described the move as a response to "unfriendly actions" by the German side, accusing Berlin of provoking a new rupture in bilateral relations. Tensions between Russia and Germany have been high since the start of the Ukraine war, with significant disagreements on European security and sanctions policy