In a televised address on Monday, Chancellor Merz condemned the drone attack on Leipzig/Halle Airport, which disrupted operations and raised alarm over the vulnerability of critical infrastructure. 'This was a deliberate act of aggression against our country,' Merz said. 'Make no mistake — the perpetrators will pay the price for this cowardly attack.'
Authorities have not yet identified the group or individuals behind the operation, but security officials suspect the involvement of a well-organized actor given the precision and timing of the strike. The airport, a major cargo hub for companies like DHL, was forced to suspend flights for several hours, causing significant delays and economic disruption.
Merz emphasized that Germany is taking the threat seriously and is bolstering its defenses against unmanned aerial systems. 'We are facing a new dimension of security challenges,' he said, adding that the government is working with NATO and EU partners to develop counter-drone technologies and response protocols.
The incident has reignited debate in Germany over defense spending and domestic security. Opposition leaders have called for a comprehensive review of airport security and the establishment of a dedicated counter-drone task force. 'This is not an isolated event. It's a wake-up call,' said a spokesperson for the Green Party.
While no group has claimed responsibility, experts note that drone attacks have become increasingly common in conflict zones and are now emerging as a threat to civilian infrastructure in Europe. The Leipzig attack follows a series of similar incidents in Ukraine and the Middle East, suggesting that the tactics are spreading.
Chancellor Merz, who took office in late 2025, has made national security a cornerstone of his agenda. His tough rhetoric and promise of consequences are seen as an attempt to reassure a jittery public and project strength both domestically and internationally.