The German government accused Russia of a failed drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport last month and announced measures against Moscow, including closing a Russian consulate. The drone, discovered near a Ukrainian aircraft on Aug. 4, was defused, posing a significant threat according to German officials.
Authorities found similarities in the drone used in the attack with past Russian hybrid operations against Ukraine, indicating a high level of technical expertise and meticulous planning. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt suggested that lower-level agents may have carried out the attack on behalf of Russian state entities.
Germany plans to propose adding more Russian individuals to EU sanctions lists in response to hybrid attacks, tighten entry controls for Russian visitors, and increase pressure on suspected tankers transporting Russian oil in violation of sanctions. The Russian ambassador was summoned to the Foreign Ministry in Berlin.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova denied Russian involvement in the drone attack, labeling the accusations as baseless. Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed the allegations, alleging that Germany fabricated evidence to divert attention from internal issues.
Leipzig/Halle Airport serves as a key hub for international freight and support to Ukraine, hosting NATO operations. The airport has been targeted in the past, with Western officials suspecting Russian intelligence behind incidents like the recent drone attack.
Over 200 incidents of sabotage and malign activity across Europe have been attributed to Russia since the 2022 Ukraine invasion, including cyberattacks, espionage, and targeted killings. The EU has imposed numerous sanctions on Russia in response to these actions.
NATO and European allies have expressed solidarity with Germany following the Leipzig attack, with leaders condemning Russian aggression and calling for a united front against destabilizing activities in the region. Plans to empower German intelligence services to counter threats like sabotage and hacking attempts have been approved by the cabinet.
Poland also reported recent acts of sabotage, with Prime Minister Donald Tusk warning of ongoing threats from Russia. A fire at a drone manufacturing plant in Poland triggered an investigation into potential foreign intelligence involvement.
