Germany attributes attempted drone strike at Leipzig Airport to Russia

The German government said on Tuesday that it held Russia “responsible” for an attempted drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport on August 4.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said at a press conference in Berlin, “The federal government concludes that Russia is responsible for the hybrid attack in Leipzig.”

Germany details response to Leipzig airport drone incident

Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul added, “The means used – such as the drone configuration, components, explosives and detonation systems – are known to us from other hybrid operations by Russia and its war against Ukraine.” He noted that the assault fits “a long series of destabilization operations” targeting Europe.

Authorities discovered a drone equipped with explosives and a detonation mechanism on the evening of August 4 in the security zone of Leipzig/Halle Airport, located between an Ukrainian cargo aircraft and a DHL cargo plane. Investigators suspect a second drone may have collided with the DHL aircraft.

German media reported last week that a third explosive‑laden drone had also been found at the airport.

Federal prosecutors described the incident as a “serious attack on Germany’s transport and logistics infrastructure.”

“Police investigations, the crime pattern and intelligence findings together substantiate Russian responsibility for the attempted attack at Leipzig Airport,” said Interior Minister Dobrindt. “We view Leipzig not as an isolated event but as part of broader hybrid actions. We expect Germany to face further hybrid attacks from Russia.”

How will Germany respond?

Dobrindt emphasized that Germany “is not at war” but “is a daily target of hybrid warfare.” He pledged a “proportionate and measured, yet resolute” response to the Leipzig hybrid attack.

Foreign Minister Wadephul said Germany’s actions would be closely coordinated with EU and NATO partners. He announced measures including a tightening of internal security, the closure of the Russian consulate in Bonn from 18 September, and the rescission of the operating contract for the “Russian House” cultural centre in Berlin.

“Our message to the Russian leadership is clear,” Wadephul stated. “We are sticking to our security course. The Leipzig attack shows this is necessary. We will not allow our social cohesion to be divided by Russian attacks. We remain ready to act with our partners when the protection of our people demands it.” He also affirmed continued support for Ukraine’s defensive battle against Russian aggression.

NATO and EU reaction

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said, “NATO stands in full solidarity with Germany after the Russian hybrid attack in Leipzig on 14 August. The alliance will continue to strengthen its ability to deter and defend its allies against such threats.”

“Russia’s attempts to intimidate us, undermine our unity and our willingness to support Ukraine are futile and will fail,” Rutte added.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated, “The German government has taken strong measures and the message is clear: hybrid attacks will not go unanswered. We are united in our resolve to stand against Russian aggression. We will deter anyone who seeks to undermine our freedom and security. Russia is sowing distrust and fear among our societies, but it will fail. We will stand by Ukraine for as long as it takes.”

EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas said it was “clear” that Russia was involved in the drone incident but declined to comment further until Germany identified those it holds responsible. She noted that Russia’s provocative actions raise questions about how to deter further escalation.

Third drone found in suspected Leipzig hybrid attack

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Edited by: Elizabeth Schumacher

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