Germany has officially accused Russia of being behind the attempted drone attack on Leipzig/Halle airport, calling the incident part of a series of hybrid attacks against Europe. Following Berlin's announcement, NATO and the European Union expressed solidarity with Germany, while the German government announced that it would take new measures against Moscow.
According to German authorities, on August 4, a drone equipped with explosives was discovered in the airport's security area, among Ukrainian transport planes. Investigators suspect that a second drone may have crashed near a DHL plane, while last week German media reported that a third drone, also equipped with explosives, was found at the airport.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said that investigations, collected evidence and intelligence information have led the federal government to the conclusion that Russia is responsible for the attack.
"The federal government concludes that Russia is responsible for the hybrid attack in Leipzig," he declared, adding that the incident is not an isolated case, but part of a "long series of destabilizing operations" against Europe.
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also expressed the same view, saying that the drone's configuration, explosives, and detonation system match elements used in other hybrid operations linked to Russia and the war in Ukraine.
Germany's Federal Prosecutor's Office has called the incident a "serious attack on German transport and logistics infrastructure," while Dobrindt warned that Germany expects to be the target of further hybrid attacks. He stressed that the country "is not at war," but faces threats of this kind every day and that Berlin's response will be "proportionate, measured, but determined."
The suspected target of the attack is no ordinary airport. Leipzig/Halle is one of Germany's most important freight hubs and a key logistical support hub for Ukraine. It is regularly used by Antonov transport aircraft and hosts NATO's Strategic Airlift International Solution (SALIS) program, which transports equipment for the alliance's battle groups on the eastern flank, from Finland to Romania, as well as supporting missions by NATO member states and the European Union.
The European Union's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, also reacted to the incident, saying it was "clear" that Russia was involved, although she waited for Berlin's official announcement before commenting further. According to her, Moscow is becoming increasingly provocative, increasing tensions in Europe.
Following Germany's accusations, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte declared that the alliance stands "in full solidarity" with Berlin. After a conversation with Chancellor Friedrich Merz, he said that NATO would continue to strengthen the deterrence capabilities and defense of allies, while Russia's efforts to undermine the alliance's unity and support for Ukraine "will fail."
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also expressed full support for Germany, stating that the European Union will remain united in the face of hybrid attacks and that these actions “will not remain without consequences.” She announced that the issue, including the possibility of new sanctions, will be discussed by EU foreign ministers.
As part of its response, Germany announced a package of measures against Russia. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced that the Russian consulate in Bonn will be closed on September 18, the contract of the “Russian House” will be terminated, checks on Russian citizens will be tightened and pressure on the so-called “shadow fleet” will be increased. Berlin also intends to propose new sanctions to the European Union against Russian individuals linked to hybrid attacks.
