Germany Blames Russia for Drone Attack at Leipzig Airport and Closes Bonn Consulate

German authorities have accused Russia of being behind a drone attack reported last month at Leipzig/Halle Airport in eastern Germany.

The incident occurred on August 4, when a drone carrying an explosive device was found near Ukrainian transport aircraft. The device did not explode, reportedly because the detonator malfunctioned. Investigators also believe that another drone may have collided with a transport aircraft parked nearby.

Leipzig/Halle Airport is used by the German military and allied NATO countries to deliver military equipment. It is also a base for Ukrainian company Antonov Airlines, which handles a large share of air cargo shipments to Ukraine.

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the August 4 incident was consistent with the “established pattern of Russian hybrid operations in Europe.” He warned that Germany could again be targeted by a similar attack.

Security experts had previously raised suspicions about possible Russian involvement. Moscow, however, has so far rejected allegations that it played a role in the incident.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also stood alongside Dobrindt at the press conference in Berlin. He announced that he would order the closure of the Russian consulate in Bonn.

Wadephul also said that the contract of the “Russian House” institution in Berlin would be terminated. Some observers have criticized the institution, accusing it of being used for espionage activities and to spread Russian propaganda.