Germany has revoked the operating permits of four of Russia's 5 consulates in the country.

The EPA reports to the AP that the German Foreign Ministry has leaked information about the case.

It has been reported that the move was taken in response to the Russian side.

Christopher Burger, a spokesman for the German Foreign Ministry, told journalists that the move was aimed at creating a "parity between staffing and structures" between the two countries.

It should be noted that the Russian government recently said that up to a maximum of 350 German government officials, including those working in cultural institutions and schools, could remain in Russia.

Burger has also indicated that Germany will have to close its three consulates in Russia by November. He said only one consulate would be allowed to continue operating after the end of the year, the Russian Embassy in Berlin and the end of the year.