Germany closes Russian consulate in Bonn over Leipzig drone attack

Germany is expelling Russian diplomats and shutting down Moscow’s consulate in Bonn, following an investigation into a drone attack near Leipzig Airport that Berlin says was orchestrated by Russia. The German government announced the new restrictions on Tuesday, targeting Russian state institutions and individuals linked to the alleged plot. Investigators have identified two suspects in connection with the incident, which occurred earlier this year. The consulate in Bonn, a western German city, will be closed as part of the response. German officials did not specify how many diplomats would be expelled, but described the measures as a direct consequence of Moscow’s actions. The drone attack, which took place near Leipzig/Halle Airport, did not cause casualties but raised alarm over Russian intelligence activities on German soil. Berlin has accused Russia of attempting to disrupt critical infrastructure. The German Foreign Ministry said the decision was made after a thorough review of the evidence. Russian officials have not yet issued a formal response. This move marks one of Germany’s strongest diplomatic actions against Russia since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in 2022. Relations between the two countries have remained tense, with repeated allegations of espionage and sabotage.