Germany faces 'real threat' from hybrid attackers, Merz warns after drone discovery

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has warned that Germany is "under threat" from hybrid attackers, citing the discovery of explosive drones near Leipzig Airport as evidence of escalating risks. Merz stated that those responsible for such acts would "pay a price" and that Germany was "facing a very real threat" and increasingly becoming a target.

On August 4, a drone carrying an explosive device was found at Leipzig/Halle Airport, a significant logistics hub for NATO and Ukraine's Antonov Airlines. The detonator was apparently faulty, preventing the device from exploding. Police defused the explosives and are investigating the possibility of a second drone colliding with a cargo aircraft nearby. Reports indicate a third drone was found near the airport, and traces of the military explosive hexogen were also discovered.

While the German government has not made direct accusations, security experts have speculated that Russia may be responsible, a claim Moscow denies. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt had previously suggested a state actor might be behind the incidents. Merz reaffirmed Germany's steadfast support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, stating the country is its strongest supporter to force peace talks, not prolong the war.

In response to the threats, Germany is initiating measures to enhance its defenses, including stronger drone detection systems and plans to empower security services to act against attackers, potentially through cyber means. The country has experienced a series of unauthorized drone flights over sensitive sites in recent months, with police warning they could be organized by Russian agents.