Germany Accuses Russia of Attempted Airport Drone Attack
Germany has accused Russia of responsibility for an attempted explosive-drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport on August 4, escalating tensions between Berlin and Moscow. German authorities said the device was discovered near a Ukrainian Antonov cargo aircraft and safely defused. Officials described the incident as a significant security threat because the airport supports international freight, Ukrainian transport operations and NATO logistics.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said investigators identified features in the drone’s design, explosives and detonator that resembled equipment used in previous Russian hybrid operations. He said intelligence and police findings indicated that individuals acting for Russian state entities were involved, although he did not identify a specific agency.
In response, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced that Germany would close Russia’s consulate in Bonn on September 18, along with the Russian House cultural centre in Berlin. Germany also plans to seek additional European Union sanctions against Russian individuals, strengthen entry controls and increase pressure on vessels suspected of transporting Russian oil outside sanctions rules.
Russia denied involvement. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova called Germany’s allegations unsubstantiated and promised a response to the closures. President Vladimir Putin also questioned the evidence and accused German leaders of using the case to divert attention from domestic problems.
Western officials have attributed numerous acts of sabotage, cyberattacks and disruption across Europe to Russia since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, allegations Moscow rejects. The Associated Press has tracked roughly 200 such incidents. A separate incendiary device burned at a Leipzig airport logistics centre in 2024, in another case suspected of links to Russian intelligence.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed support for Germany. The announcement came as Poland investigated a major fire at drone manufacturer WB Electronics for possible foreign intelligence involvement. Germany’s intelligence reforms would broaden powers against sabotage and hacking.