Germany Investigates Russian Links in Weapons Cache Found in Berlin Forest

Sun Sep 06 2026 02:38:53 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

German authorities probe links between a hidden weapons cache found in woods near Berlin and Russian intelligence, amid rising concerns over targeted killings.

German intelligence officials say a cache of firearms and ammunition discovered in a forest outside Berlin last year may have been intended for use in assassinations on behalf of Russia. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt confirmed federal prosecutors are investigating a suspect in Romania over espionage and a possible parcel‑bomb plot. Berlin police and the domestic security agency identified two handguns and ammunition in the stash, and placed the site under surveillance, but no one approached it during that period. The case follows a series of Russian‑related security allegations against German soil, adding to fears of covert killings by foreign agents.

German intelligence officials claim that a cache of guns found in the woods near Berlin last year was linked to Russian‑oriented assassination plans.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said federal prosecutors are looking into a suspect in Romania, who is accused of espionage and the "preparation of a serious act of violence threatening the state." He declined to confirm Russian links but said foreign involvement could not be ruled out.

Security agencies warn that Russian intelligence services have been planning targeted killings in Germany, potentially against defence industry executives or exile opposition figures.

Authorities discovered two handguns and ammunition with the help of the Berlin State police. The weapons were rendered inoperable, and the site was monitored for months with no visitors.

The investigation follows earlier accusations of Russian plots to strike German targets. In 2024 a CNN report alleged Moscow was prepping to kill the head of the armaments firm Rheinmetall. In 2021 a court jailed Russian national Vadim Krasikov for a Berlin park murder ordered by Moscow, later freed in a prisoner swap.