Stefan Thumann, a German defense entrepreneur, has raised alarms about what he describes as a state of war between Germany and Russia, particularly in light of recent tensions regarding alleged acts of sabotage by Kremlin agents. This warning comes as Berlin strengthens its stance against these supposed Russian operations.
In a recent podcast interview with Axel Springer Global Reporters Network, Thumann emphasized that the sabotage conducted by Moscow against Germany reflects a “coordinated military act” rather than the “hybrid war” label often used by EU leaders to characterize Russia’s campaign in Europe. “Germany and Russia are at war,” he asserted, according to Politico.
Thumann’s warning coincides with Germany’s formal accusations against Russia for a drone attack attempt at Leipzig Airport last month. The German authorities have already initiated retaliatory measures against Moscow.
Thumann Under Secretive Protection
Thumann’s company, Donaustahl, supplies combat drones to Ukraine. He revealed that he has been living under constant protection after authorities uncovered a purported Russian intelligence plot to poison him in 2025. He received a serious warning from officials just before Christmas, indicating that his life was in danger due to threats from Russia.
“Yes, the threat comes from Russia, and yes, it is very serious – your life is at risk,” Thumann recalls being told by the authorities. Shortly thereafter, a suspected low-ranking agent was apprehended.
To counteract the threat, Thumann transformed his official addresses into “trap” locations, designed specifically to lure hostile actors. He stated, “Lower-level agents were only there to find out where I was. Then an assassination using poison was supposed to be carried out.” This threat has drastically changed his life; he now lives in undisclosed locations with bodyguards, has not seen his family for months, and has prepared a will and advance medical directive in case of an attack or fatality.
Germany to Close Russian Consulate and Cultural Center
In response to the tensions, Germany has decided to close its last Russian consulate in Bonn, as well as a cultural center in Berlin. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced these measures after directly attributing the recent drone incident to Moscow. “We have ordered the following actions in accordance with Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz: the Russian consulate in Bonn will be closed effective September 18. The contract for the ‘Russian House’ in Berlin will be terminated,” Wadephul stated.
He further noted that the Leipzig incident must not be viewed in isolation, as it fits into a pattern of Russia’s hybrid operations in Europe. Prior to this announcement, German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt indicated that investigations suggest Russia is responsible for the failed drone attack at Leipzig Airport last month.
According to Dobrindt, the drone’s configuration, explosive components, and ignition devices correlate with other hybrid operations conducted by Russia and its ongoing war against Ukraine, highlighting significant technical expertise and considerable organizational effort.
In response to these developments, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that Moscow would react to all “anti-Russian actions” by Germany.
On August 4-5, a drone laden with explosives was discovered in the secured area of Leipzig/Halle Airport, near several Ukrainian cargo planes. Shortly after, a collision occurred between a cargo aircraft from logistics company DHL and another drone. The DHL aircraft was able to land safely in Hanover with minor damage.
German media reported that a third drone was found ten days later to the west of the airport, containing approximately 50 grams of hexogen, a highly potent military explosive.
Leipzig/Halle Airport, located in eastern Germany, is a hub for military transport, particularly for the German armed forces and NATO allies. It also serves as an operational base for DHL and Ukrainian airline Antonov Airlines.
