The German government has accused Russia of being responsible for the August attempt to attack Leipzig/Halle airport with a drone carrying explosives. In response, Berlin announced the closure of the Russian general consulate in Bonn, the termination of an agreement with the Russian House in Berlin, and is preparing further measures against Moscow.
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that the results of the police investigation, the method used to carry out the attack, and intelligence findings indicate Russia's responsibility. The incident on August 4th was described as part of hybrid operations that European countries have been facing in recent years.
The case has attracted particular attention due to the nature of the device found. A drone equipped with explosives and a detonator was discovered in the security area of Leipzig/Halle airport, located near Ukrainian cargo planes. The explosive device was successfully neutralized, and there were no casualties.
Berlin is taking a tougher stance against Moscow
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced that the Russian general consulate in Bonn will be closed on September 18th. Germany will also terminate the agreement allowing the Russian House in Berlin to operate and has summoned the Russian ambassador.
The federal government also wants to push for further sanctions at the European Union level, expand travel bans, and impose stricter controls on the entry of some Russian citizens. Berlin also wants to increase pressure on what is known as the "Russian shadow fleet."
The Leipzig/Halle airport is one of the most important cargo aviation hubs in Europe and has strategic importance for logistics related to Ukraine. That is why German authorities do not consider the incident an isolated security problem, but a potentially serious attack on critical transport infrastructure.
Russia has denied the allegations. Moscow has long denied German and European claims that it is behind a series of acts of sabotage, cyberattacks, and other hybrid operations in Europe.