FM Macinka rejects Russian ambassador’s explanation of Leipzig incidents

Foreign Minister Petr Macinka, who summoned the Russian ambassador in connection with the Leipzig incidents, rejected her explanation that allegations of Russian involvement were a provocation, the Czech Foreign Ministry said.

Macinka expressed solidarity with Germany and called on Russia to de-escalate tensions and put forward proposals that could lead to peace.

The minister also told the Russian ambassador that, in response to a recent tightening of conditions for the Czech diplomatic mission in Moscow, Czechia will introduce reciprocal measures for Russian diplomatic and technical staff accredited in the country to bring the conditions into balance, the ministry added.

In connection with the incidents, the Czech Foreign Ministry and intelligence services are preparing changes to the system for notifying authorities about Russian diplomats’ movements in Europe.