Germany ‘under threat,’ Merz says after another explosive drone found near airport
Key Points:
- Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the discovery of explosive drones near Leipzig airport indicates Germany is facing real and increased hybrid threats.
- German counterterrorism authorities launched an investigation after an airport worker found a drone with a failed detonator on August 5, followed by the discovery of another drone near the airport on August 14.
- Merz did not specify the perpetrators but mentioned ongoing intensive investigations, while insiders suggest the government has circumstantial evidence about those responsible.
- German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt indicated a state actor might be behind the drone threat, with many signs pointing in that direction.
- The German government plans to expand intelligence agencies' powers to counteract threats, especially from Russia, as security conditions have worsened since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.