Germany accuses Russia of the Leipzig drone attack and closes the last Russian consulate in the country

Germany has formally accused Russia of orchestrating a hybrid attack involving explosive drones at Leipzig Airport, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations. The German government confirmed Tuesday that it holds Moscow responsible for the incident, which occurred on August 4, when a drone carrying explosives was discovered at the airport. This follows ongoing investigations that have pointed to Russian involvement, with officials stating that intelligence and police findings confirm Russia's responsibility. The announcement comes after Germany decided to close its last remaining Russian consulate in Bonn and terminate the lease of the Russian Cultural Center, known as the "Casa Rusa," in Berlin. These measures were announced by Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul during a press conference alongside Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt. Wadephul emphasized that Germany would increase scrutiny of Russian citizens entering the country and intensify pressure on Russia’s so-called “ghost fleet” operating in international waters. German authorities described the attack as part of a broader pattern of hybrid actions attributed to Russia. Dobrindt noted that while investigations into the incident continue, the government has concluded based on available evidence that Russia is behind the attack. He stated that low-level agents were likely responsible for the attempt on Leipzig Airport, where a second drone reportedly collided with a DHL cargo plane shortly after the initial discovery. A third drone and additional explosives were found ten days later, according to regional public broadcasters WDR and NDR, along with the newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung. Germany plans to bring the case before NATO’s highest decision-making body, the North Atlantic Council, to formally present its allegations against Russia. Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government had previously avoided making official accusations despite mounting evidence pointing toward Russian involvement. The move signals a shift in strategy, with Germany seeking multilateral support through NATO to address what it describes as a growing threat from hybrid warfare tactics. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed solidarity with Germany following the attack and affirmed that the alliance will continue strengthening its capabilities to deter and defend against threats such as those observed in Leipzig. In a statement shared on social media, Rutte welcomed Germany’s response and reiterated NATO’s commitment to collective defense and unity among member states. He warned that Russia’s attempts to intimidate and undermine the alliance’s cohesion would fail, emphasizing NATO’s unwavering support for Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also voiced full solidarity with Germany, stating that hybrid attacks like the one in Leipzig would not go unanswered. She spoke with Chancellor Merz earlier this week to discuss the situation and reaffirmed the EU’s resolve to remain united despite escalating tensions. Von der Leyen stressed that the European Union stands firmly behind Germany and will not tolerate such aggressive actions aimed at destabilizing the region. The incident has sparked renewed concerns over the security of critical infrastructure across NATO countries, prompting discussions on enhanced surveillance and counter-drone measures. German officials have indicated that they will work closely with allies to develop more robust strategies against hybrid threats, including cyberattacks and unconventional military operations. Meanwhile, diplomatic channels remain open, though the closure of the Russian consulate in Bonn underscores the deteriorating relationship between Berlin and Moscow. As the investigation continues, German authorities are expected to release further details on the evidence linking Russia to the attack. The government has also signaled its intention to take additional steps to safeguard national interests and reinforce alliances within both NATO and the European Union. With the formal accusation now made, the focus shifts to how the international community will respond to Germany’s claims and whether this marks a turning point in the geopolitical standoff between Western powers and Russia.