Officials from Germany’s Economy Ministry flagged possible relations with Russia – Die Zeit

BERLIN, Aug 31 (Reuters) – Germany’s economy ministry has asked the country’s domestic intelligence agency, the BfV, to investigate two senior ministry officials over possible ties to Russia, it reported on Wednesday. the weekly Die Zeit.

Die Zeit, citing its own research, said Economy Ministry officials approached the BfV in the spring about the officials’ allegedly pro-Russian stance on issues including the bailout of utility Uniper (UN01. DE) or state intervention in Gazprom Germania. Read more

Die Zeit did not name the officials.

The BfV has reviewed the backgrounds, personal relationships and travel records of the officials, and has so far found no solid evidence of espionage or corruption, Die Zeit reported.

The Economy Ministry, which said it does not comment on specific cases, said it has maintained close contact with the BfV since the start of the legislature, as the ministry’s work is under particular scrutiny due to its responsibility for energy security.

“Furthermore, the new administration has completely overhauled the pro-Russia policy of the previous government,” an economy ministry spokesman said.

“All the efforts of the new administration are aimed at reducing dependence on Russian gas; this policy is rigorously implemented,” the spokesperson said.

Reporting by Miranda Murray. Editing by Jane Merriman

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