A branch office of the Federal Ministry of Digital Affairs has relocated into a building situated immediately next to the Russian House of Science and Culture in Berlin. According to a ministry spokesperson speaking to the “Tagesspiegel” (Monday edition), the move commenced on July 1st.
This development comes against a backdrop of heightened concern, as the French Interior Ministry recently reported that it suspects Russian intelligence services might be using the Russian House in Berlin as a cover.
According to the “Tagesspiegel”‘s research, the location at Taubenstraße 42/43 houses two of the Digital Ministry’s six departments. Among these sensitive areas is the division responsible for “Security and Resilience of Public Telecommunications Networks.” Several other departments whose work could be of interest to foreign intelligence agencies are also situated within this new branch office.
The ministry spokesperson stated that security authorities were involved intensively from the outset, confirming that “all recommended security measures are being consistently implemented.”
However, the location choice has faced criticism. Roderich Kiesewetter, a CDU Member of the Bundestag, commented to the “Tagesspiegel”, stating that “there is an obvious lack of risk awareness here.” He emphasized that the Russian House poses a security risk that must no longer be underestimated.
