Germany blames Russia for drone sabotage attempt at Leipzig airport

The German government officially blamed Russia on Tuesday for a drone sabotage operation at Leipzig/Halle Airport. German authorities stated that during the August 4 incident, a drone carrying an explosive device was discovered near a Ukrainian Antonov cargo aircraft; the device failed to detonate due to a faulty detonator. In response, Berlin announced the closure of the Russian consulate in Bonn and the termination of the contract for the 'Russian House' cultural center in Berlin.

Germany's Interior Minister cited forensic evidence and intelligence findings, describing the incident as part of a 'well-established pattern' of Russian hybrid operations in Europe. In addition to closing diplomatic facilities, Germany has tightened entry restrictions for Russian nationals and announced further measures targeting Russia's 'shadow fleet.' The Russian ambassador to Germany was summoned following the announcement.

The Russian Embassy in Berlin dismissed the accusations as 'absurd,' and Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova threatened that Moscow would respond in a 'mirror-image' fashion. Conversely, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed full solidarity with Germany, stating that the evidence is clear and welcoming Berlin's response.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the EU is preparing additional sanctions against Russia. Leipzig/Halle Airport serves as a major logistics hub for Germany and NATO, playing a critical role in supporting Ukraine's cargo operations. Separately, German police are investigating the discovery of improvised explosive and incendiary devices at a power substation in Brandenburg, which caused a temporary power outage.