Germany probes drone with explosives found at Leipzig cargo hub

Germany has initiated a counterterrorism investigation following the discovery of an explosive-laden drone near a runway at Leipzig/Halle Airport, a significant cargo hub in Europe. The incident, which occurred overnight, prompted the closure of sections of the airport and the suspension of flights.

Airport workers found the drone in a restricted cargo area. Several aircraft, including those belonging to the logistics company DHL, were diverted during the disruption. While most operations resumed by morning after one runway was reopened, authorities confirmed that passengers and airport staff were never in danger. The diverted DHL plane later struck an unidentified object while ascending, with minor damage noted after its landing in Hanover.

Explosives experts examined the drone and removed its detonator. The southern runway, crucial for DHL and Ukraine's Antonov Airlines, remained closed during the examination. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt scheduled an emergency meeting with heads of German security services to address the situation.

This incident occurs amid heightened alert at German airports due to a series of unauthorized drone overflights at various sensitive sites. Federal police have suggested that Russian agents might be behind these overflights. Reports indicate the Leipzig drone was found near a Ukrainian Antonov cargo plane, which has used Leipzig/Halle as a base since Russia's 2022 invasion. The explosive material may have been a simple mixture of fertilizer and gasoline.

Anti-extremism prosecutors and counterterrorism officers have taken over the investigation. European security agencies have also been looking into incendiary devices found in parcels in 2024, raising concerns about potential sabotage of air cargo operations. However, a spokesperson stated no connection between those incidents and the Leipzig drone discovery could be determined at this stage. Russia has denied involvement in both the 2024 incidents and the recent overflights.

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The diverted plane hit an unidentified object while climbing away from the airport.