Germany says Russia behind Leipzig airport drone attack

What the report says

Germany has accused Russia of being behind a drone incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport in eastern Germany last month, according to BBC World News. The drone, which was carrying an explosive device, was found on 4 August near Ukrainian cargo aircraft. Investigators said the device did not detonate because the trigger appears to have been faulty, and they also suspect a second drone may have struck a nearby cargo plane. A third drone was later reported near the airport.

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the case fit what he described as a broader pattern of Russian hybrid activity in Europe, and warned that Germany should expect further targeting. BBC reported that Russia has denied similar allegations in the past, while security experts had already speculated that Moscow could be involved. The airport is significant because it is used for military cargo transport by German and NATO forces and also serves Ukraine’s Antonov Airlines.

In response, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said he would move to close the Russian consulate in Bonn and end the contract for the Russian House in Berlin. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the alliance stood in solidarity with Germany and welcomed the measures. The issue was due to be discussed later the same day by EU foreign ministers in Ireland.