Germany blames Russia for Leipzig airport drone attack
Germany has accused Russia of being behind a failed drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport earlier in August, saying the incident fits a wider pattern of Russian hybrid operations across Europe.
A drone carrying an explosive device was found at the airport on August 4 near Ukrainian cargo planes. The device failed to detonate, apparently because of a faulty detonator, while investigators believe another drone collided with a nearby cargo aircraft. A third drone was reportedly discovered near the airport 10 days later.
Alexander Dobrindt, German Interior Minister, said an examination of the equipment, combined with intelligence findings, had established Russian involvement. Moscow rejected the allegation as “absurd”.
Johann Wadephul, the Foreign Minister announced tougher measures against Russia, including the closure of the Russian consulate in Bonn, the termination of the contract for the Russian House in Berlin and tighter entry controls for Russian nationals.
