Germany Blames Russia for Airport Drone Incident, Hits Back with Sanctions

Germany on Tuesday formally attributed to Russia an attempted hybrid attack that occurred last month near a strategically important airport. The incident involved a drone carrying explosives. Berlin responded by announcing a series of diplomatic counter-measures.

The European Union expressed its full solidarity with Germany. NATO gave assurances that it would defend its member states. Several countries, including Britain, Estonia and Poland, also offered strong backing.

Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Germany would close Russia's consulate in Bonn, the former capital, later this month. In addition, the contract for the Russian House, a cultural centre in Berlin, would be terminated.

These steps form Germany's diplomatic response to what it described as a hybrid threat. The move comes after the discovery of an explosive-laden drone at the strategic airport last month. By shutting the consulate and cancelling the cultural centre's contract, Berlin has signalled that it takes the incident seriously and is prepared to act.