Germany blames Russia over drone incident near cargo planes at Leipzig airport
Russia sabotage at Leipzig/Halle Airport rattles Germany and NATO allies See how Berlin is responding with tougher sanctions, closures, and tighter entry rules
Germany has accused Russia of carrying out a failed sabotage operation involving a drone at Leipzig/Halle Airport, saying investigators tied Moscow to an incident on Aug. 4 near a Ukrainian cargo aircraft.
Officials said the drone was found with an explosive device that did not detonate because of a faulty trigger. German authorities also believe a second drone struck a nearby cargo plane. The airport is a major cargo hub and a logistics center used by Germany, NATO partners, and Ukrainian Antonov aircraft.
In response, Germany said it will close Russia’s consulate in Bonn, end the contract for the Russian House cultural center in Berlin, tighten entry rules for Russian nationals, and add measures targeting Russia’s shadow fleet. Russia denied the allegations, while NATO and EU leaders voiced support for Germany’s conclusions and signaled further pressure on Moscow.