Germany has officially blamed Russia for an attempted drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport last month, stating that evidence indicates the involvement of Russian state entities. The German government announced on Tuesday that it would close a Russian consulate in Bonn and take other measures against Moscow in response.
The drone, found near a Ukrainian plane on August 4, was laden with explosives and was successfully defused. German officials described the incident as a new level of danger.
Alexander Dobrindt, Germany's Interior Minister, told reporters in Berlin that the drone's configuration, components, explosives, and detonator are familiar from other Russian hybrid operations and its war against Ukraine. He noted that the device demonstrated a high degree of technical expertise and planning, though the execution appeared to be left to less experienced operatives. Intelligence findings, coupled with police investigations and the pattern of the device, prove Russian responsibility, Dobrindt said.
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that the Russian leadership deliberately chose to inflict significant damage on already strained bilateral relations. Effective September 18, the Russian consulate in Bonn will be closed, and the operating contract for the Russian House cultural center in Berlin will be rescinded.
In addition to these actions, Germany plans to propose adding more individuals from Russia to European Union sanctions lists in connection with hybrid attacks. The country will also enhance entry controls for Russian citizens and increase pressure on the so-called "shadow fleet" of tankers suspected of violating international sanctions by transporting Russian oil.
Leipzig/Halle Airport is a significant hub for international freight and plays a crucial role in supporting Ukraine. It frequently handles Ukrainian Antonov transport aircraft and is home to NATO's Strategic Airlift International Solution (SALIS), which supports NATO battle groups along the alliance's eastern flank.
In a separate incident in 2024, an incendiary device ignited a freight container at a logistics center at the same airport, an event Western security officials suspect was orchestrated by Russian intelligence.
Russia's Foreign Ministry, according to the Interfax news agency, stated that Moscow would respond to Germany's "anti-Russian decision."