Monitoring desk
Brussels
NATO and the European Union have vowed to increase pressure on Russia following a suspected Russian drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany, marking a further escalation in tensions between Moscow and the West. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said Europe and NATO would not only maintain existing pressure on Russia but would step it up. Von der Leyen described the Leipzig incident as a new escalation on European soil and said the West would continue supporting Ukraine until Russia ends its war.
Germany has accused Russia of orchestrating the failed drone attack, in which explosive-laden drones were reportedly discovered near the airport. Berlin has responded by announcing the closure of Russia’s consulate in Bonn and additional restrictions on Russian diplomatic and cultural activities. Moscow has denied involvement and rejected the accusations.
NATO officials have also stressed the need for continued military assistance to Ukraine, particularly air-defence systems. NATO Deputy Secretary-General Radmila Shekerinska said Russia had shown no willingness to end the war and called for sustained pressure on Moscow alongside increased support for Kyiv.
The latest developments come amid growing concern across Europe over alleged Russian hybrid activities, including sabotage, cyberattacks and airspace violations. NATO has pledged to strengthen its defences while maintaining its support for Ukraine.
The tougher stance signals that the alliance and its European partners intend to respond more firmly to what they regard as Russian attempts to destabilise Europe and undermine support for Ukraine.
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