German prosecutors investigate explosive drone at Leipzig/Halle airport, suspecting Russia

An explosive-laden drone discovered at Leipzig/Halle airport near Ukrainian cargo planes has prompted German federal prosecutors to investigate suspected attempted bombing and interference with air traffic. The drone carried explosives but no intact detonator; an employee brought it down. A plane aborting landing after airspace closure hit an unknown small object, possibly a second drone. Experts suspect Russia; the interior minister cited a hybrid attack by foreign powers. Last year Chancellor Merz blamed Russia for drone sightings at German airports; Moscow denies and calls such claims Ukrainian provocations. In 2024, a package fire at DHL Leipzig was linked to Russian operatives.