Lavrov denies Russia’s involvement in drone incident in Leipzig: accusations could start a real war

Sergei Lavrov has responded to Germany’s accusations that Moscow was involved in the incident at Leipzig Airport, where a drone packed with explosives was discovered. The Russian foreign minister warned that such statements could trigger a dangerous escalation.

“The accusations against Russia are the beginning of a real war,” Lavrov said, describing Berlin’s claims as a hasty provocation.

The incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport has increased tensions between Germany and Russia. According to German authorities, the drone found near a Ukrainian cargo plane contained elements linked to Russian technology and was carrying explosive material.

So far, investigators have identified two people suspected of playing a role in the operation. The first is a Russian-born man holding a Latvian passport, who is suspected of coordinating the actions and having links to the Russian intelligence services.

According to reports by German media, the suspect had arrived in Germany via Berlin Airport and then traveled to Leipzig in a rented vehicle. After the incident, he left German territory again.

Biological traces have been used by investigators to advance the identification of the second suspect. His DNA was found on one of the drones, inside a metal container holding explosives, as well as on an antenna installed near the airport.

Authorities believe the antenna may have been used to strengthen cellular signals used to control the drones.

After comparing the genetic material with European databases, investigators identified a Belarusian-born man who also holds a Russian passport. His movements in Germany have been reconstructed, and he is suspected of having entered the country with an Italian tourist visa.

However, German authorities are being cautious regarding Russia’s possible role in the incident and the possibility of bringing both suspects to justice.

Moscow has denied all links to the incident. The Russian Embassy in Berlin described the case as a “hasty provocation” and expressed concern over what it considers a new wave of “anti-Russian hysteria” in Germany.

The incident is expected to further deepen the diplomatic clashes between Berlin and Moscow, as Germany and its allies face numerous accusations of suspected Russian activities on European territory.