Germany says Russia behind Leipzig airport drone attack
A drone carrying an explosive device was discovered at the airport close to Ukrainian cargo planes on 4 August.
Germany has attributed last month's drone assault at Leipzig Airport to Russia.
On August 4, an explosive-laden drone was found at Leipzig/Halle Airport in eastern Germany, near Ukrainian cargo planes. The device did not detonate, seemingly due to a faulty detonator. Investigators also suspect a second drone struck a nearby cargo aircraft.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that the August 4 attack aligned with the "well-established pattern of Russian hybrid operations in Europe" and anticipated further targeting of Germany. While security experts had previously speculated about Russian involvement, Russia had consistently denied these claims until now.
Leipzig/Halle Airport serves as a hub for the German military and NATO allies for transporting military supplies. It also hosts Ukraine's Antonov Airlines, which handles the majority of Ukraine's air cargo.
During a Berlin press conference alongside Dobrindt, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced the closure of the Russian consulate in Bonn and the termination of the contract for the Russian House in Berlin. Many observers have suggested the latter has been utilized for espionage and disseminating Russian propaganda.