Russia has summoned the German ambassador in Moscow over allegations that German authorities have persecuted journalists. The dispute follows claims by Russia’s top media official in Berlin, Sergei Feoktistov, that German police confiscated his family’s passports after he was ordered to leave the country. These accusations come amid heightened tensions between the two nations, with both sides accusing each other of undermining media freedoms and diplomatic ties.
The situation has raised concerns about the safety of journalists operating in Russia, particularly in light of recent reports of increased government surveillance and restrictions on press freedom. Feoktistov, who previously served as a deputy editor of Rossiya Segodnya, the Kremlin’s official news outlet, has expressed frustration over what he describes as a lack of protection for Russian journalists working in Germany. His family’s passports were reportedly confiscated after he faced pressure to leave the country, a move he claims is an attempt to silence critical reporting.
The Russian Foreign Ministry has not yet officially commented on the reported incident, but diplomatic channels have since been activated to address the matter. Meanwhile, German officials have not publicly responded to the accusations, though there are indications that they are reviewing the case. This incident underscores the complex and often strained relationship between Russia and Germany, particularly in a context where media freedom and political influence are deeply intertwined.