Germany accuses Russia of drone attack on Leipzig airport

What the report says

Germany has accused Russia of being behind an attempted drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport in eastern Germany, in a case described by the government as part of a wider pattern of so-called Russian hybrid operations in Europe. According to Al Jazeera’s report, Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the incident involved a drone carrying explosives and that police work, the circumstances of the offence and intelligence findings pointed to Russian responsibility. The drone was discovered near a Ukrainian aircraft at the airport on the evening of August 4 and was later defused.

The announcement came amid heightened concern across Europe over sabotage attempts and other incidents that some governments say are linked to Moscow, especially as European states continue backing Ukraine in its war against Russia. German officials said they do not consider the Leipzig case isolated. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Berlin would respond with diplomatic steps.

Those measures include summoning the Russian ambassador, closing Russia’s consulate general in Bonn and the Russian House cultural centre in Berlin, and seeking further sanctions and travel restrictions through the European Union. The government also said it wants more pressure on Russia’s so-called shadow fleet. Russia rejected the accusation, with its foreign ministry spokeswoman calling it an anti-Russian move. EU and NATO officials voiced support for Germany and said more sanctions against Moscow are being prepared.