'State-sponsored terrorism' — EU's Kallas blasts Russia over Leipzig hybrid attack

EU chief diplomat Kaja Kallas condemned Russia on September 2nd after Berlin accused Moscow of attempting a drone attack on Leipzig Airport. Kallas declared the incident clearly resembled state-sponsored terrorism during a press briefing before an informal gathering of EU foreign ministers in Wicklow, Ireland. The EU diplomats are expected to deliberate countermeasures against Russia during the meeting.

Drones were detected at Leipzig Airport on August 4th, with one striking a cargo plane. Both media reports, U.S. intelligence, and the German government attributed the hybrid attack to Russia. Kallas noted that the informal session will not decide on any response but will discuss the matter and potential sanctions. The EU has already prepared 1,600 listings targeting Russia's military complex, with potentially more to come.

These listings, along with the "22nd package" of sanctions, will be the most extensive set of restrictions imposed on Russian entities simultaneously. EU leaders aim to approve the package in the autumn. Subsequently, the bloc plans to establish a more adaptable system to identify actors supporting the Russian war effort and swiftly enforce sanctions.