Germany's steps against Russia following the drone incident at Leipzig-Halle Airport have increased diplomatic tensions between the two countries. Russia announced that it would respond strongly to the measures taken by the government in Berlin.
In a statement rejecting the accusations directed at Russia, the Russian side argued that Germany had taken steps aimed at completely disrupting Russian-German relations. Bernd Finke, chargé d'affaires at Germany's Embassy in Moscow, was also summoned to the ministry over the developments.
Berlin deliberately resorted to a provocation aimed at escalating the situation in Russian-German relations. Germany's actions will receive a strong response.
The drone incident at the airport
On August 4, a drone believed to contain an explosive device was found at Leipzig-Halle Airport near a Ukrainian transport aircraft.
U.S. intelligence claimed that the drone's characteristics were specific to Russian military intelligence. The German government said that findings obtained during the investigation pointed to Russia's responsibility and announced a series of measures against Moscow.
Berlin's decisions targeting Russia
- Russia's Consulate General in Bonn will be closed as of September 18.
- The contract concerning the Russian House in Berlin will be terminated.
- Entry controls for Russian citizens will be tightened.
- Pressure on Russia's so-called shadow fleet will be increased.