Germany blames Russia for explosives-carrying drone incident at airport as EU and NATO offer support

Germany has blamed Russia for an attempted attack involving an explosives-carrying drone at Leipzig-Halle Airport in August, prompting strong expressions of support from the European Union and NATO.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wrote on X that the EU stood united against what she called Russian aggression and was preparing further sanctions. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, after speaking with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, said the alliance would continue strengthening its ability to deter and defend all members against threats, including hostile actions in Leipzig and elsewhere.

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We stand united and resolutely oppose Russia’s aggression. We will deter anyone who seeks to undermine our freedom and security.

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said an intelligence assessment found that people involved in the incident had acted on instructions from Russian state institutions. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Germany did not view the episode as an isolated event, but as part of a wider Russian campaign of hybrid actions in Europe.

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NATO will continue to strengthen our ability to deter and defend all allies against any threat, including hostile actions in Leipzig and across the alliance.

Berlin announced several countermeasures. They include closing Russia’s consulate in Bonn and ending the contract for the Russian House cultural center in Berlin. Germany also plans to press the EU to add more Russian nationals to sanctions and travel-restriction lists, while increasing pressure on Russia’s so-called shadow fleet.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Moscow would respond to what she described as Berlin’s anti-Russian actions, but gave no further details.

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Russia is trying to intimidate us, break our unity and weaken our willingness to support Ukraine. These efforts are doomed to fail.