Russian threats ‘cannot go unpunished,’ Sybiha says after foiled Leipzig drone attack

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha urged decisive action to address Russian threats in Europe following a failed drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport. He labeled acts of sabotage, disinformation, interference in elections, espionage, and attacks on critical infrastructure as part of a deliberate Russian strategy, not isolated events.

Sybiha expressed solidarity with Germany, calling for stronger responses, including additional sanctions, warning that unaddressed incidents would only embolden Russia. He emphasized the need for a unified European strategy, particularly before upcoming elections across European nations. Ukraine pledged to share its defense experience to bolster Euro-Atlantic security.

Sybiha noted Russia's perception of war against Europe, even if Europe doesn't view itself that way. He suggested that backing Ukraine and increasing pressure on Moscow were the best responses to incidents like the Leipzig attack and suspected Russian hybrid operations. Germany officially blamed a Russian intelligence service for the drone attempt, noting the equipment matched that used in other Russian attacks.

This prompted Germany to close its consulate in Bonn and the Russian House of Culture in Berlin, along with calls for further sanctions, tighter visa rules, and heightened pressure on Moscow to curb its shadow fleet.