Germany summons Russian ambassador over defense firm threats

Germany on Monday summoned Russia’s ambassador following Moscow’s publication of a list of European defense companies it claimed were involved in Ukrainian drone production, labeling them as potential military targets. The German Foreign Ministry stated that the move amounts to “direct threats” intended to undermine Berlin’s support for Ukraine and test Europe’s cohesion.

‘We will not be intimidated’

“Direct threats from Russia against targets in Germany are an attempt to weaken our support for Ukraine and to test our unity,” the ministry said in a statement posted on social media. “Our response is clear: We will not be intimidated. Such threats and all forms of espionage in Germany are completely unacceptable.” The ministry confirmed that the Russian ambassador had been summoned that day.

Potential military targets

Russia’s Defense Ministry released the list last week, identifying several European defense firms, three of which are based in Germany. Moscow described the companies’ home countries as part of Ukraine’s “strategic rear” — language interpreted by German media as an implicit justification for possible military strikes or covert operations. Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian president and deputy head of Russia’s Security Council, escalated further, calling the list “a list of potential targets” for Russian armed forces.