Germany blames Russia for Leipzig airport drone attack and will close Russian consulate in Bonn

Germany has formally blamed Russia for a drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport, where an explosive-carrying drone was found near Ukrainian cargo aircraft on Aug. 4. The device did not explode, apparently because its detonator malfunctioned.

Investigators believe a second drone collided with a commercial aircraft in the area. Ten days later, authorities reported finding a third drone near the airport. Russia has rejected accusations that it was involved, although security experts had previously suggested Moscow might be responsible.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the incident followed the “known pattern of Russian hybrid operations in Europe” and warned that Germany could be targeted again. The airport serves the German military and NATO allies for military transport. It is also a base for Ukraine’s Antonov Airlines, which handles most of the country’s air cargo.

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known pattern of Russian hybrid operations in Europe

Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced in Berlin that Germany would close the Russian consulate in Bonn. The government will also terminate the contract for the Russian House in Berlin, a facility that observers have described as being used for espionage and the spread of Russian propaganda.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said the alliance stood fully in solidarity with Germany. “The evidence is clear. And I welcome the measures Germany has announced in response,” he wrote on X. EU foreign ministers were expected to discuss the issue at a meeting in Ireland later on Tuesday.

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The alliance stands fully in solidarity with Germany. The evidence is clear. And I welcome the measures Germany has announced in response.