Russia and Germany Trade Accusations Over Leipzig Drone Attack

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Germany of seeking war with Russia again, escalating tensions over the August drone attack at Leipzig airport. Berlin maintains Moscow sent an explosive-laden drone to the site, a key military hub for Germany and NATO. Germany announced the closure of Russia's last consulate and the Russian cultural center in Berlin, effective September 18, following the official accusation. Lavrov compared the diplomatic moves to actions before World War II, and criticized Chancellor Friedrich Merz for moving toward a "declaration of war." In response, Russia announced the closure of the Goethe Institute and summoned Germany's chargé d'affaires, citing "anti-Russian actions." President Vladimir Putin called Germany's measures a "gross new mistake."