In a Sunday interview with public broadcaster ARD on August 30, 2026, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that investigations into the drone attack on Leipzig/Halle Airport are in their final phase. According to Merz, the federal government has already reached an agreement on the response, which will be announced in the coming days. This statement comes at a time of high tension, with regional elections in eastern Germany scheduled for next Sunday and a growing debate over support for Ukraine.
The Attack: Three Drones, One Clear Target
On August 4, 2026, Leipzig/Halle Airport was the scene of a coordinated drone attack targeting a Ukrainian Antonov cargo aircraft, used for transporting military supplies. Investigators found a total of three drones:
- First drone: Found near the Ukrainian aircraft with explosives that did not detonate. Its apparent intention was to land on the wings of the plane, which was loaded with kerosene, potentially causing a catastrophe.
- Second drone: Possibly collided with a DHL cargo plane about 20 minutes after the first discovery. The aircraft aborted its landing and was diverted to another airport.
- Third drone: Found days later in a field in a municipality bordering the west of the airport. The Federal Criminal Police found residues of hexogen, a highly potent explosive, though it also did not detonate.
The investigators' report notes that “the perpetrators may have had in mind a much larger attack than was publicly known.” The main suspicion falls on Russia, which has denied involvement, although the German government has not yet officially confirmed the responsible party.
Germany's Response: Sanctions and Strong Measures
According to Die Welt and Politico, citing government sources, Germany's response could include:
- Formally blaming Russia for the attack.
- A new sanctions package coordinated with Brussels.
- Stronger measures against Russia's shadow fleet, ships that illegally transport oil.
- The possible closure of the Russia House in Berlin, a Russian cultural institution, which could provoke reprisals such as the closure of the Goethe Institute in Russia.
Merz had already warned the previous week: “They will pay for this,” emphasizing that the attackers increasingly accept serious damage and even deaths. The response will be communicated with EU and NATO partners and could be announced during the EU defense and foreign ministers' meetings in Wicklow, Ireland, this week.
Political Context: Elections and Debate on Ukraine
The attack occurs in a delicate political climate. Next Sunday, eastern German states will hold elections, where the AfD party (anti-immigrant and populist) expects to perform well. The debate on Russia and support for Ukraine is a central campaign issue. Markus Frohnmaier, AfD's foreign policy spokesperson, stated he believes “without a doubt” that Germany faces hybrid threats, but he will not speculate on those responsible and called for government transparency.
Meanwhile, the international community watches closely. Germany's response could mark a turning point in relations with Moscow and in European security policy. Merz's promise to act firmly, along with coordination with allies, suggests that Berlin is ready to step forward in defending its interests and those of Ukraine.