Russia likely behind Leipzig drone incident, German press says

German media outlets are sounding the alarm over a recent drone incident at Leipzig airport, where an explosive-laden drone narrowly avoided detonation. The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) suggests Russia or its affiliated sabotage cells are likely responsible, labeling the event a "new level of hybrid warfare." Previously, sabotage attempts involved igniting materials, but this incident represents an "open attack."

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The incident with the drone at Leipzig airport almost led to a catastrophe. The matter is not yet clarified, but it is known that the found drone was equipped with explosives and a detonator. There was no explosion, no one was injured, the incident ended fortunately, just like the probable collision of a second drone with an airplane.

The FAZ criticizes German authorities for a "too reckless" approach to such threats. Despite around 1,000 drone flights and numerous cyberattacks last year, Germany lacks an effective defense system. The newspaper argues that while not every attack may be Moscow-directed, the war in Ukraine has escalated Russia's hybrid warfare tactics.

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the suspicion arises that the perpetrators of this 'incident' should be sought in Russia or among its affiliated sabotage cells in the West.

"How much longer will Germany remain defenseless in hybrid warfare?" asks Handelsblatt. The paper notes that even with a new critical infrastructure protection law, explosive-laden drones operate unimpeded. The incident signifies a "new quality of threat," potentially involving "state terrorism," with suspicion falling on Russia, though investigations are ongoing.

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new level of hybrid warfare.

Der Spiegel reports that NATO is closely monitoring the German investigation. The alliance uses Leipzig as a base for transporting military equipment to Ukraine, involving Ukrainian forces. The German media's commentary underscores a growing concern over national security and the perceived inadequacy of current defense strategies against evolving hybrid threats.

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open attack