독일, 공항 드론 사건 배후로 러시아 지목…영사관·문화기관 폐쇄

Germany's government officially blamed Russia behind the uncontained explosion of a drone equipped with explosives at Leipzig-Halle Airport last month, leading to the closure of the Russian embassy and cultural institute. Russia denied involvement and warned of a response. According to Alexander Dobrin, Germany's interior minister, the investigation concluded that Russia was responsible for the attack due to the sophisticated technical skills and organizational effort required for the crime.

The drone was found with explosives and a blasting device near a Ukrainian cargo terminal at the airport, causing a temporary closure of the runway. DHL also reported a collision with another unidentified aircraft, resulting in damage. Dobrin suggested that the preparation and equipment used indicated a "high level of professional expertise" and that a "low-level agent" was likely acting on behalf of Russia.

German authorities have been investigating whether Russia had been using agents to carry out sabotage or attack preparations in Germany, targeting Germany's support for Ukraine. The German government immediately responded with diplomatic and sanctions measures, including closing the Russian embassy in Germany on August 18th and terminating the contract for the Russia House cultural institute in Berlin's central district.

Dobrin met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who retaliated by calling the German handling of the situation a "serious mistake" and claimed the evidence was "manipulated" to serve German domestic political motives. European Union Executive Vice-President Ursula von der Leyen responded by pledging to respond to Germany "on equal terms," while NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Germany's response.