Russia to close German cultural centres after Berlin blames Moscow for airport drone plot

Germany holds Russia accountable for a drone attack on Leipzig airport last month, announcing a series of punitive measures against Moscow. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt told reporters that the country is now facing "high" threat levels due to "daily hybrid attacks." Foreign Minister Heiko Maas closed the Russian consulate in Bonn and the Russian House cultural center in Berlin, while the EU's executive branch pledged "additional sanctions" later in the week.

President of the EU Ursula von der Leyen revealed that foreign ministers would unveil a "clear response" to Russia in the coming days.

The US defense official confirmed the drone was armed with military-grade explosives and found inside a secure area near the airport's south runway, where cargo flights operate. German authorities discovered a second flying object that damaged a cargo plane a day later, which landed safely in Hannover. Russia denounced the accusations as "absurd," with President Vladimir Putin claiming Germany planted evidence to blame Moscow, though without presenting any evidence.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Germany's response, emphasizing the alliance's commitment to Ukraine and its resolve to deter and defend against any threat, including malicious actions. A third drone was reportedly found in a field near the airport a week after the incident, fueling speculation that multiple drones were intended for the attack.

Germany's Federal Prosecutor's Office is investigating the case, but has not commented due to ongoing proceedings. Leipzig/Halle Airport, a major European cargo hub, has been home to Ukraine's Antonov Airlines since Russia destroyed their base in Hostomel, Ukraine, during the country's full-scale invasion in 2022.