Germany Imposes Sanctions on Russia Over Leipzig Drone Attack

Germany has accused Russia of orchestrating a hybrid attack involving explosive-carrying drones at Leipzig airport and responded with a series of diplomatic measures against Moscow.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the government reached its conclusion after examining the drones’ technology and other intelligence. He said the components, including the explosives and ignition system, matched technology known to have been used by Russia in other hybrid operations and in its war against Ukraine.

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We are tightening entry controls for Russian citizens, and Germany will propose that more Russian individuals be placed under EU sanctions.

Dobrindt blamed lower-level agents for the operation. Berlin summoned Russia’s ambassador, Sergei Nechayev, to explain the incident.

Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Germany would close Russia’s consulate in the former capital Bonn at the end of the month. Berlin would also cancel the contract for Russian House, a Moscow cultural center in the German capital.

“We are tightening entry controls for Russian citizens, and Germany will propose that more Russian individuals be placed under EU sanctions,” Wadephul said. He also pledged greater pressure on Russia’s shadow fleet, a term used for aging oil tankers and other cargo ships with opaque ownership structures that Moscow uses to evade Western sanctions.

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Full solidarity

The European Union expressed “full solidarity” with Germany, while NATO said it would defend its member. Britain, France and Poland also voiced strong support for Berlin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin called the sanctions another “serious mistake” and said they clearly ran against the interests of the German people. Russia’s embassy in Berlin said Nechayev rejected the allegations as unfounded and absurd, warning that the measures would not go unanswered.

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Serious mistake