Leipzig-Halle Airport experienced major disruptions overnight after an explosives-laden drone was discovered on the tarmac near a Ukrainian cargo plane. An airport employee spotted the object, which authorities described as containing an unknown explosive device. The discovery, coupled with a cargo plane striking an unidentified object mid-air, led to a temporary suspension of flights and the diversion of aircraft.
A major security operation was launched, including the deployment of a bomb disposal robot. Authorities stated that a second drone may have collided with the cargo plane in mid-air, causing slight damage to the aircraft before it landed safely.
The airport in eastern Germany serves as a key hub for the transport of cargo and military equipment. Interior Minister Dobrindt, who cut his summer break short to address the situation, said the incident is being treated as a hybrid attack scenario. Investigators are examining possible political motives and suspicions of Russian interference.