Power struggle in Russia
Baerbock: The government is closely monitoring developments in Russia
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. photo
© Kay Nietfeld/dpa
The federal government is following the violent uprising in Russia very closely – and is updating its travel warnings. SPD leader Klingbeil sees signs of massive power struggles in the Russian elite.
According to Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, the federal government is in “closest contact” with Germany’s partner countries because of the violent uprising by the Russian mercenary army Wagner.
“We have been observing developments in Russia very closely since yesterday evening,” wrote the Green politician on Twitter.
At the same time, the Federal Foreign Office updated its travel and safety information for German citizens in Russia.
The instructions now state that the affected areas and in particular the city of Rostov-on-Don and the surrounding area should be avoided. “In Moscow, state, especially military, facilities should be largely bypassed. The city center should be avoided for the time being. The instructions of the Russian security authorities should be followed at all costs.” In general, the ministry advises German citizens against traveling to Russia.
Austria also issues a travel warning
The Austrian Foreign Ministry issued a “partial travel warning” for Russia. It advised against travel to the administrative districts of Belgorod, Kursk, Bryansk, Voronezh, Rostov and Krasnodar bordering Ukraine.
Russia has been waging a war of aggression against neighboring Ukraine for 16 months. The Wagner mercenaries have so far been among the most important troops. After months of teasing and then also public criticism, Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin now openly opposed the military leadership in Moscow.