In brief
Friedrich Merz cautioned that those responsible for a recent drone explosion at Leipzig/Halle Airport would face consequences as Germany confronts a growing security threat. A drone carrying a defective explosive was found near Ukrainian cargo planes, sparking speculation about Russian involvement. Merz stressed the need for enhanced drone defenses and the empowerment of security services to counter future attacks. He reaffirmed Germany’s backing for Ukraine while outlining measures to mitigate domestic and foreign threats, including the possibility of hacking enemy servers. The incident highlights a broader pattern of unauthorized drone flights over sensitive German sites in recent months.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told reporters at a Neuhardenberg retreat that those linked to the recent drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport would “pay a price” while Germany confronts a “very real threat.”
On 4 August a drone carrying an explosive device was discovered near Ukrainian cargo planes at Leipzig/Halle Airport. The drone’s detonator malfunctioned, preventing the device from exploding.
Police defused the explosives and suspect a second drone may have collided with a cargo aircraft nearby. Security experts have speculated that Russia might have been involved, although the German government has not made direct accusations and Moscow denies participation.
The airport serves German and NATO military logistics and is a base for Ukraine’s Antonov Airlines, making it a critical node in the conflict.
Merz said Germany faces external problems that must not be ignored. He warned that attackers are “increasingly ruthless, accepting severe property damage, injuries and fatalities.”
Investigators found a third drone near Leipzig airport and traces of the military explosive hexogen nearby, according to public broadcasters.
On the margin of a coalition retreat, Merz said the government closely cooperates with security authorities and will release further details soon.
He vowed to “stay the course” in supporting Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s invasion, emphasizing that Germany’s backing is “steadfast” and aimed at forcing peace talks rather than prolonging war.
Merz outlined measures to better protect Germany, including stronger drone defenses and empowering security services to retaliate against attackers by hacking their servers. Police warned that recent unauthorized drone flights over military sites, airports, energy terminals, seaports, and logistics firms could be arranged by Russian agents.
