Explosive Drone Discovery Fuels German ‘Hybrid Warfare’ Warning
An explosive-laden drone was found at Leipzig/Halle Airport this week. The discovery quickly sparked new security fears in Germany. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt now warns Germany faces “daily hybrid warfare” attacks.
Mr. Dobrindt explained what he meant by hybrid warfare. He said it includes spying, sabotage, and cyberattacks. Covert operations by foreign powers also happen regularly. These actions aim to destabilize Germany and create fear. Mr. Dobrindt did not name any specific countries behind these attacks.
The minister’s warning followed the drone discovery in eastern Germany on Tuesday. The device was carrying explosives. Some German lawmakers suggested Russia was responsible for the drone. Russia has been at war with Ukraine since 2022.
The Russian embassy in Berlin rejected these claims on Friday. It called the Leipzig event a “fabricated provocation.” The embassy said this was another baseless accusation against Moscow.
Germany plans to improve its defenses against drones. The government wants to double its team of anti-drone experts. The number will rise from 150 to 300. It also plans to increase related bases from four to eight.
German armed forces reported two more drones on Thursday. These were seen over a military base in Mechernich, western Germany. Separately, a drone exploded in Bulgaria on Saturday. It was near the Trans-Balkan gas pipeline.
Bulgaria’s defense ministry said the explosion was not intentional. Ukraine is working with Bulgaria to understand the incident. These drone events across Europe raise concerns. Russia’s war in Ukraine could affect nearby NATO countries. NATO and European Union officials have blamed Russia for previous drone sightings. Russia has denied all such allegations.
