Germany accuses Russia of hybrid warfare following Leipzig airport drone incident

German authorities have officially attributed a drone incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport to Russia, characterizing it as part of a broader pattern of ‘hybrid warfare’ in Europe. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that the deployment of an explosive-laden drone follows an established pattern of using military and non-military tactics to exert pressure without open conflict.

The incident occurred near a runway used for logistics supporting Ukraine. In response to the accusations, Germany and Russia have closed each other's cultural centers, including the Russian consulate in Bonn. U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker described the event as one of the most concerning hybrid actions witnessed in Europe, calling such activities ‘unacceptable.’

While official reports describe a sophisticated operation, some conflicting accounts have emerged. Reports indicate a worker at the airport claimed to have neutralized a device without finding traces of explosives, a testimony reportedly shared with a Ukrainian blogger. Moscow has denied all involvement in the Leipzig incident, dismissing the accusations as unfounded.