Lavrov Warns Germany Over Drone Allegation, Citing Risk of 'Real War'

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Germany of pushing tensions toward "a real war" after Berlin linked Russia to an explosive drone found at Leipzig/Halle Airport in August. He made the remarks in a Russian state television interview on Sunday. Lavrov said Germany identified the drone as Russian-origin without adequate explanation, calling the allegation "strictly speaking, the beginning of a real war." He also condemned German sanctions, including the closure of Russia's Bonn consulate and Berlin cultural centre, comparing the actions to events preceding World War II. German authorities found the drone near a Ukrainian cargo plane on August 4; it failed to explode, with two more drones later discovered. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt cited forensic analysis and intelligence for blaming Russia, though the Kremlin denies involvement. The airport serves NATO and Ukrainian military logistics.