Russia Vs Germany Tit-For-Tat EXPLODES; Putin Gives Befitting Reply To Merz Amid 'War Preparations'

525 views | Feb 05, 2026, 11:03:17 PM | TOI.in
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Russia and Germany are locked in a fresh diplomatic standoff after Moscow expelled a German diplomat in what it called a “symmetrical response” to Berlin’s earlier expulsion of a Russian official over espionage allegations. Germany has condemned the move as unacceptable, warning of further action, while Russia has dismissed the accusations as baseless and accused Berlin of fuelling “spy mania.” The dispute is unfolding against a deeper European divide, with France and Italy backing renewed dialogue with Moscow, even as Germany doubles down on sanctions and pressure. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has sharply criticised German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, accusing Berlin of preparing for war and mocking European leaders for what he calls inconsistent and fear-driven rhetoric. As expulsions, sanctions, and sharp words escalate, Europe’s approach to Russia appears more fractured than ever.