As reported by Deutschlandfunk, the Russian Foreign Ministry has summoned the German ambassador to Russia, Alexander Graf Lambsdorff. The summoning of diplomatic representatives is a common but serious step in diplomacy, usually signifying a formal reprimand or the delivery of an official protest note.
The exact reasons for summoning Lambsdorff were initially not disclosed. However, diplomatic circles speculate that the move could be related to the strained relations between Russia and Germany, as well as the European Union (EU). In recent months, tensions between Moscow and Berlin have escalated due to the Ukraine conflict, the EU's sanctions policy, and mutual expulsions of diplomats.
Alexander Graf Lambsdorff, who has been Germany's ambassador to Russia since 2023, is considered an experienced diplomat. Previously, he served as ambassador to Israel, among other posts. According to Deutschlandfunk, the summoning occurred without prior notice.
The Russian Foreign Ministry has not yet officially commented on the specific reasons. Observers assume that the summoning was carried out as part of standard diplomatic practice to convey a complaint from the Russian side. In the past, German ambassadors to Russia have been summoned repeatedly, for instance in connection with alleged interference in internal affairs or critical statements by German politicians.
The German embassy in Moscow did not comment on the incident when asked by Deutschlandfunk. It is customary for diplomatic representatives to consult with their government before making public statements after being summoned.
The incident underscores the persistently difficult relations between Germany and Russia. Both countries have repeatedly expelled diplomats and leveled mutual accusations in recent years. The EU imposed comprehensive sanctions following Russia's attack on Ukraine, which Germany supports. Russia, in turn, accuses Germany and other Western states of interfering in its internal affairs.
The summoning of Lambsdorff could also be seen in the context of recent statements by German politicians. Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) has repeatedly called on Russia to end its aggression against Ukraine. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (Alliance 90/The Greens) has also sharply criticized Moscow.
Diplomatic observers view the summoning as a sign of displeasure on the Russian side. However, it is not unusual for ambassadors to be summoned to convey official positions. Typically, this is followed by a phase of diplomatic communication to resolve differences.
As Deutschlandfunk further reports, it is unclear whether the summoning will lead to further diplomatic measures.
