The Russian embassy in Berlin has called a drone incident at Leipzig/Halle airport a staged provocation while German federal prosecutors investigate a potential attack. Embassy officials also denounced what they described as a new wave of anti-Russian hysteria in Germany.
In a statement, the embassy said the event was another example of unsubstantiated accusations against Moscow. It added that there is no evidence proving any Russian involvement in the incident.
The German federal prosecutor's office launched an investigation after receiving evidence pointing to a drone attack against the airport serving the cities of Leipzig and Halle. Prosecutors warned that the attempt undermines national security.
Explosive drone discovered at cargo hub
Airport workers discovered the drone late on Tuesday at Leipzig/Halle airport. According to prosecutors, the aircraft carried explosives and a detonator.
The airport serves as an important hub for cargo transport flights and NATO logistics in eastern Germany. It is also the base for giant An-124 aircraft operated by Ukrainian company Antonov Airlines.
German government officials and other authorities have not publicly accused another country of the incident. However, some lawmakers consider Russia responsible, following past accusations by German officials that Moscow has conducted hybrid attacks.
The Russian embassy commented that the hastily staged provocation serves only the interests of Kyiv and the militaristic wing of the European political class.
