Germany blames Russia for explosive-laden drone attack at Leipzig airport
Germany's government says Russia was behind an explosive-laden drone found near a Ukrainian jet at Leipzig airport last month. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt cited police work and intelligence establishing Russian responsibility. Berlin is closing Russia's consulate in Bonn and its Berlin cultural center in response.
Germany's government has directly blamed Russia for an explosive-laden drone incident at Leipzig-Halle airport on August 4. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said police investigations, the pattern of the offense, and intelligence findings together establish Russian responsibility, calling it a hybrid attack. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced Germany will close Russia's consulate in Bonn, cancel the lease on its Russian House cultural center in Berlin, and push for more EU sanctions on Russian nationals. NATO chief Mark Rutte and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen both voiced support for Germany. The Kremlin has repeatedly denied involvement.