Russia closes German consulate and Goethe-Institut in cultural retaliation

Russia has confirmed the closure of the German Consulate General in Saint Petersburg and the Goethe-Institut in Moscow, directly retaliating against German sanctions. This action accelerates the decline of German cultural presence in Russia, while Germany's reciprocal move to close the Russian House cultural center in Berlin faces legal and diplomatic hurdles. The situation indicates a continued breakdown in bilateral cultural and diplomatic ties.