EU summons Russian envoy over failed Leipzig drone attack
The EU's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the attempted attack had "all the hallmarks of state-sponsored terrorism." She said the EU was summoning a Russian envoy, with France announcing a similar step.
On Wednesday, the European Union's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, summoned Russia's envoy in Brussels over an alleged failed hybrid attack involving a drone at Leipzig/Halle Airport last month. Germany's foreign and interior ministers stated in a joint press conference on Tuesday that they believe Russia was responsible for the attack, confirming suspicions that emerged immediately following the news in August.
Kallas emphasized that the incident displayed all the characteristics of state-sponsored terrorism and announced the EU's ongoing work on sanctions against Russia. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot also summoned a Russian ambassador in response, advocating for sanctions at a European level, particularly against Russia's so-called shadow fleet of ships.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul confirmed that the EU would continue to work on further sanctions in the coming weeks. Wadephul and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that the German government held Russia responsible for the attempted attack at Leipzig Airport, citing police investigations, crime patterns, and intelligence findings as evidence of Russian involvement.
Russia has rejected these allegations, accusing Germany of inventing its narrative. The attack occurred at Leipzig/Halle Airport, a crucial freight hub, where Ukrainian airline and aircraft manufacturer Antonov frequently transits material to Ukraine. Despite Russian officials' denials, the EU and other nations are demonstrating unity in pressuring Russia and supporting Ukraine.
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