Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has reacted sharply to accusations against Russia regarding an attack at Leipzig Airport, stating that Germany has begun a “real war” against Russia. In a recent statement, he highlighted the expulsion of the Russian consulate from Bonn and the closure of the “Russian House” in Berlin as indicators of escalating tensions. Lavrov drew historical parallels, recalling actions taken by Germany before the onset of World War II when they closed diplomatic missions.
He announced that the Russian leadership would draw conclusions from remarks made by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, asserting that Germany has failed to learn from history. Lavrov expressed concern over the resurgence of “metastases of Nazism” within Germany, suggesting that certain current political figures will soon be removed from the heights of European politics.
“I am confident that at some point, hopefully not too distant, they will be washed away from the top of European politics, and the peoples of Europe will make the right choice,” Lavrov stated, although he acknowledged uncertainty over when this would occur.
Previously, German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt announced a plan to counteract Russia, emphasizing that hybrid operations from Moscow have become a “daily reality.” He assured that Germany would protect itself and take necessary actions.
Context
- On August 5, a drone laden with explosives was discovered near a Ukrainian cargo plane, the Antonov An-124-100, at Leipzig Airport, leading to a halt in flights and the dispatching of bomb disposal experts. Several German media outlets reported that the plane was carrying military ammunition, prompting German authorities to officially accuse Russia of an attack.
- On September 1, news emerged about an attack using homemade rockets on an electrical substation in Brandenburg.
- As part of its response, the German government decided to close its last Russian consulate in Bonn by September 18 and terminate its agreement for the “Russian House” in Berlin. In retaliation, Lavrov announced the closure of all branches of the German Goethe Institute, stating that otherwise, Russia would not “respect itself.”
