In brief
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Germany is under real threat after a drone carrying explosives was found at Leipzig/Halle Airport. He warned that attackers will pay a price and called for tougher defense, including drone barriers and cyber strikes. The incident, which involved a defective detonator and a possible second drone, has led to speculation that Russia may have been involved, though Moscow denies it. Merz also reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to Ukraine and pledged to keep the country’s security stronger.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that those responsible for drone attacks and other hostile acts against Germany would pay a price after a recent incident at Leipzig Airport.
On 4 August, a drone carrying an explosive payload was discovered at Leipzig/Halle Airport, close to Ukrainian cargo planes. The drone failed to detonate because the detonator was defective, and police defused the device before it could cause damage. Reports suggest a second drone may have collided with a nearby cargo aircraft.
Security experts and media outlets have speculated that Russia could be behind the deliveries, though Moscow denies any involvement. The airport is a key military and NATO logistics hub and also hosts Ukraine’s Antonov Airlines.
Merz stressed that Germany faces a “very real threat” and that attackers are increasingly ruthless, accepting property damage, injuries and even fatalities. The government is working closely with security authorities to investigate the case and promised to release more details soon.
In addition to calling for stronger drone defenses, Merz announced plans to empower security services to retaliate against attackers, including hacking their computer servers. He also reaffirmed Germany’s support for Ukraine, stating the aim is not to prolong the war but to force peace talks.
