Anna Hartz
Germany Reports Suspicious Drone Activity Linked to Moscow
Anyone who has traveled across Europe in recent years knows how much tighter security has become.
Airports, train stations, and even border crossings have all adapted to new threats. But one area often overlooked is the skies above.
Small drones, which once seemed like toys or tools for hobbyists, have now become part of a growing security challenge for European countries.
Not Just a Random Flight
According to U.S. and European officials, Russia or groups linked to it are flying reconnaissance drones over routes used to move military cargo through eastern Germany, reports The New York Times.
These flights are not random. Officials believe the purpose is to gather intelligence that could support sabotage operations or give Russian forces an advantage in Ukraine.
Sabotage Cases
American and German authorities have been in close contact over this issue. They have already investigated several sabotage cases.
Earlier this year, three Ukrainians were arrested in Germany and Switzerland in connection with an alleged Russian-linked plot.
Investigators say the plan involved planting explosives on cargo planes. It is still unclear whether the aim was to target Ukraine directly or to cause damage before the aircraft even left German soil.
The Threat Remains
Russian sabotage activity has been linked to other incidents across Europe.
Warehouse fires in the United Kingdom, an attack on a Norwegian dam, and efforts to cut undersea cables in the Baltic have all been tied to Moscow’s campaign.
Western intelligence agencies say the number of attacks has gone down compared to 2024.
They credit stronger security measures and coordinated efforts between the U.S. and European partners. Still, the threat remains.
A Rise in Sightings
German outlets have reported a rise in drone sightings, especially in Thuringia, an eastern state that plays a key role in logistics.
U.S. officials confirm the drone activity but cannot say with certainty who is flying them. The suspicion, however, points toward Russia or individuals working under its direction.
A Serious Problem
The German government has already begun looking at new counter-drone systems. Military officials in both Europe and the U.S. are treating the problem seriously.
They see it as part of a wider effort by Moscow to disrupt supply lines, test defenses, and keep pressure on the West while the war in Ukraine continues.
