Germany Responds to Russia Over Leipzig Attacks, Reiterates Solidarity with Ukraine, Imposes Sanctions, Lists Individuals By Raymond Enoch
Germany has responded in strong terms to what it described as a Russian hybrid attack involving drone incidents at Leipzig Airport, announcing a fresh package of measures against Russia while reaffirming its unwavering support for Ukraine.
German Foreign Minister Wadephul, speaking alongside Interior Minister Dobrindt at a joint press conference on September 1, 2026, accused the Russian Federation of pursuing a sustained campaign aimed at destabilising Europe through disinformation, threats, sabotage and aggression.
He said Germany had become a target of what he described as Moscow’s increasingly hostile conduct, stressing that the deteriorating relationship was not in the interest of the German Federal Government.
According to Wadephul, Germany had repeatedly made clear since the beginning of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine that its objective remained to end the conflict, restore peace in Europe and eventually return to constructive relations with Russia.
He, however, said Moscow had shown no willingness to compromise and had instead chosen to further damage already strained bilateral relations through the alleged attempted attack in Leipzig.
“Russia’s leadership has instead made a conscious decision to inflict further significant damage on our bilateral relations, which are already under tremendous strain,” Wadephul said.
The Foreign Minister declared that Germany remained secure and capable of defending itself against actions intended to create fear and instability, insisting that Berlin would not be intimidated or divided by what it characterised as Russian hybrid operations.
In a direct response, the German Government announced several measures targeting Russian diplomatic, political and economic interests.
Wadephul said he had ordered the closure of the Russian Consulate General in Bonn effective September 18, while Germany would also terminate the lease for the Russian House in Berlin.
Berlin will further propose new listings of Russian individuals within the European Union in connection with hybrid attacks, tighten immigration controls for Russian nationals and intensify pressure on Russia’s so-called shadow fleet.
The German Government also said it would pursue additional measures in the intelligence sector and continue efforts within NATO to strengthen Germany’s defence capabilities and reinforce deterrence against Russia.
Wadephul stressed that Germany was acting in close coordination with its allies, saying the Federal Government was liaising with partners in NATO and the European Union and had received assurances of their solidarity.
He said Berlin would continue to support Ukraine through both civilian and military assistance, while working to strengthen Germany’s own security and defence posture.
The Foreign Minister also disclosed that the Russian Ambassador had been summoned as the German Government prepared to formally communicate its response to Moscow through the appropriate diplomatic channels.
He described the Leipzig incident as a further warning of the urgency of Germany’s security measures and said Berlin would remain firmly committed to protecting its population, allies and partners.
Wadephul said Germany would not allow Russia’s actions to undermine social cohesion or intimidate the German people, stressing that Berlin remained prepared to respond decisively, together with its international partners, whenever necessary.
He further reiterated Germany’s solidarity with Ukraine in its efforts to defend itself against Russia’s war of aggression, making clear that the latest confrontation would not alter Berlin’s broader security policy or its commitment to supporting Kyiv.
