Germany Blames Russia for Leipzig Drone Plot, EU Calls for Diplomat Expulsions

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski called for tighter restrictions on Russian diplomats and citizens traveling within the EU, stating Russia is trying to destroy the EU from within.

His comments followed Germany's attribution of an explosive-laden drone incursion to Russia on Tuesday, prompting Germany to announce retaliatory diplomatic measures. Sikorski proposed limiting Schengen visas for Russians, requiring biometric passes, capping diplomat numbers, and restricting their freedom of movement to accredited countries. He estimated over 2,000 Russian diplomats in the EU, with at least 40 percent performing tasks inconsistent with diplomatic status.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot indicated Paris is ready to support further steps. Romania expressed full solidarity with Germany, with interim foreign minister Oana Ţoiu stating the country stands with Germany. On August 4, a drone carrying an explosive device was discovered at Leipzig/Halle Airport near Ukrainian cargo planes, failing to explode due to an apparently faulty detonator.

Investigators suspect a second drone collided with a cargo aircraft nearby, and a third was found 10 days later. Leipzig/Halle Airport serves as a hub for military aid to Ukraine and is used by NATO. European foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the incident as having the characteristics of an act of state-sponsored terrorism. German Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt noted the methods were consistent with other Russian hybrid operations.

Germany's retaliatory measures include closing the Russian consulate in Bonn from September 18 and terminating the lease for the Russian House in Berlin. Tighter entry controls for Russian nationals and tougher action against Moscow's shadow fleet are also planned. Hungary condemned Russia’s serious threat and offered full solidarity. German authorities identified two suspects: one Russian national from Belarus and a Russian-born Latvian national.

Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Italy would check reports that a suspect entered the Schengen area with an Italian tourist visa. Russia has denied responsibility for the drone plot.