Investigations into the failed drone attack targeting Leipzig/Halle Airport are reportedly uncovering increasingly strong links to Russia’s military intelligence service, the GRU.
According to Welt am Sonntag, citing classified investigative documents and security sources, a Russian national suspected of having ties to the GRU allegedly played a key logistical role in preparing the operation.
The suspect reportedly entered Germany via Turkey before later leaving for Serbia through Berlin Brandenburg Airport. German authorities were allegedly aware of his suspected links to Russian intelligence when he entered the country, but he was not placed under surveillance. According to the report, he has since returned to Russia.
The Kremlin has categorically denied the allegations and rejected any involvement in the incident.
Explosives and Detonation Technology Provide Key Clues
On the evening of August 4, a drone carrying explosives was discovered and neutralized at Leipzig/Halle Airport near a Ukrainian Antonov transport aircraft.
According to the German federal government, investigators traced the suspects partly through the drone’s configuration, the type of explosive used and its detonation technology. Authorities say these characteristics have also been identified in other hybrid operations attributed to Russia.
In early September, the German government officially held Russia responsible for the incident. In response, Berlin announced measures including the closure of Russia’s Consulate General in Bonn.
Moscow retaliated by closing the German consulate and several Goethe-Institut branches in Russia.
