Anna Hartz
European airports have become increasingly alert to the risk of drones and other suspicious activity.
A new case in Germany has now raised concerns about possible Russian involvement in an incident at one of the country’s major cargo airports.
Enough information for a conclusion
The German government has officially concluded that Russia was behind a failed drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport on August 4, reports TV2.
The incident happened last month as a DHL cargo plane was preparing to land at the airport in eastern Germany. The aircraft crew spotted an unknown object about 400 meters above the ground.
A drone was later found on the runway. Police in the state of Saxony said at the time that it was carrying an unknown explosive device.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt presented the government’s assessment of the incident at a press conference.
Germany has not found a single piece of evidence that directly proves Russia ordered or carried out the operation. However, officials say they have enough information from different sources to conclude that Russia was involved.
The evidence includes two drones and explosives found during the investigation. One of the drones was identified as a type used by Russian forces in Ukraine.
German intelligence information was also taken into account when officials reached their conclusion.
Why the attack failed
German authorities believe the operation may have been carried out by inexperienced people. That could explain why the attack failed.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the alliance fully supports Germany. He said the evidence of Russian involvement was clear and backed the measures announced by the German government.
Rutte also said that Russian attempts to divide NATO and weaken Western support for Ukraine would fail.
Germany is now taking diplomatic action. Wadephul said the Russian consulate in Bonn and Russia House in Berlin will be closed in response to the incident.
The Russian ambassador has also been summoned by the German government.
Wadephul said the airport incident was part of a wider pattern of Russian destabilization operations targeting Europe.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also expressed support for Germany. She described the incident as a Russian hybrid attack and said such actions would receive a clear response.
Von der Leyen said she would discuss the case with Rutte. EU foreign ministers are also expected to prepare possible further sanctions.
The incident adds to growing concerns in Europe about drones, sabotage and other forms of suspected Russian activity. Germany’s decision shows that Berlin is prepared to respond more firmly when it believes Russia is responsible.
