European Union foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas declared on Wednesday that the bloc intends to intensify sanctions pressure on Russia in response to a failed drone attack on a German airport. Berlin has alleged that Moscow was responsible for the incident, in which three explosive-laden drones were discovered at Leipzig/Halle Airport on August 4, causing temporary disruptions to air traffic. Russia has rejected these accusations, with President Vladimir Putin asserting that evidence against Moscow had been fabricated.
Kallas characterized the attempted attack as “state-sponsored terrorism” and stated that “attempts to intimidate Europe” would not succeed. She announced that the EU is preparing to add sanctions targeting approximately 1,600 individuals and entities connected to Russia’s military sector, with plans to impose further measures as needed. Additional proposals under consideration include restrictions on former Russian military personnel entering the EU and enhanced visa limitations for Russian tourists.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the airport incident as “a new escalation on European Union soil” and indicated that authorities are examining methods to reduce Russia’s capacity to finance its military operations. Russia’s representative to the EU has been summoned by the bloc and individual member states to address the matter. Meanwhile, Russia’s foreign ministry summoned Germany’s envoy to Moscow to formally reject involvement in the failed attack.
The EU has previously imposed sanctions on more than 3,000 Russian officials, oligarchs, and companies since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The bloc has sought to maximize pressure on Russia through economic measures while avoiding direct military intervention. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul indicated that Russia would face consequences for its alleged actions, stating that a response had been carefully prepared in advance.
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