Sergei Lavrov accuses the German government of preparing for war

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has accused the German federal government of wanting to “wage war again” against Russia. Regarding the allegations that Russia was behind the planned drone attack at Leipzig Airport, he said: "They stated that it was a Russian drone without anyone attempting to investigate more closely."

According to Russian news agencies, Lavrov went on to say: "This is ultimately the beginning of a real war." The Russian chief diplomat addressed his allegations directly to Chancellor Friedrich Merz: "Basically, he is heading towards a declaration of war against us. The lessons of history have not been heeded.«

Lavrov said about the Federal Government's announcement that it would close the Russian Consulate General in Bonn. "I remember that before the start of the Second World War, the Great Patriotic War, the Germans also closed their diplomatic missions... They want war again."

Last Tuesday, Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) blamed the Russian government for the attempted drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport. Dobrindt spoke of “persons involved” who acted “on behalf of Russian state authorities.” The federal government has therefore come to the conclusion that Russia was responsible for the hybrid attack in Leipzig on August 4th.”

A drone loaded with explosives was discovered near several Ukrainian cargo planes at Leipzig/Halle Airport. The airport is considered a transshipment point for military aid deliveries to Ukraine.

Russia rejected the allegations as absurd. President Vladimir Putin said the German allegations were an "unfounded provocation" and an unprecedented escalation in Russian-German relations. They would not remain without consequences.