RUSSIA REJECTS GERMAN CLAIMS LINKING MOSCOW TO LEIPZIG AIRPORT DRONE

Russia has rejected allegations by Germany that Moscow was responsible for a drone incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport, describing Berlin’s accusation as unfounded and demanding evidence to support the claim. The dispute has added to already strained relations between the two countries amid growing concerns across Europe over alleged Russian hybrid activities.

The drone incident occurred in early August after an explosive-laden unmanned aircraft was discovered at Leipzig/Halle Airport, a major cargo hub in eastern Germany. German authorities later said their investigations indicated that the drone was linked to Russia, prompting Berlin to publicly attribute responsibility to Moscow and consider diplomatic measures in response.

Russia, however, has strongly denied any connection to the device. Russia’s Chargé d’Affaires in Abuja, Igor Ivannikov, said Germany had failed to provide technical evidence demonstrating that the drone belonged to Moscow. He accused the German government of advancing what he described as a predetermined narrative designed to worsen relations between Russia and Germany.

The incident has become particularly sensitive because the drone was reportedly found close to a Ukrainian cargo aircraft at the airport and was carrying explosives. German officials have argued that the equipment and configuration were consistent with methods previously associated with Russian hybrid operations. The device was neutralised without causing the destruction of the aircraft or significant casualties.

Germany has responded to its assessment by taking diplomatic steps against Russia, including plans to close the Russian consulate in Bonn and the Russian House cultural centre in Berlin. Berlin has also indicated that it wants stronger European measures against individuals believed to be involved in such activities, while NATO and European Union partners have expressed support for Germany.

Moscow has described the German position as politically motivated and has protested the accusations through diplomatic channels. Russia’s Foreign Ministry summoned Germany’s chargé d’affaires in Moscow on September 2, while President Vladimir Putin also rejected the allegations and accused Berlin of using the incident to justify a confrontation with Russia.

The disagreement comes as European governments increasingly warn about possible sabotage, cyberattacks and other forms of covert activity linked to the wider conflict surrounding Russia’s war in Ukraine. Germany is investigating several other suspected sabotage incidents involving critical infrastructure, adding to concerns that the Leipzig airport episode could form part of a broader security challenge.

Despite Germany’s attribution of responsibility, Russia continues to deny involvement, leaving the two sides sharply divided over the evidence and circumstances surrounding the Leipzig airport incident.