Russia’s ambassador rejects Romania’s allegations over the Leipzig incident

Russia’s ambassador to Romania, Vladimir Lipaev, has rejected allegations of Moscow’s alleged involvement in the drone incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport, calling them “absurd,” “ridiculous,” unfounded and lacking evidence. The statement was made after the diplomat was summoned to Romania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bucharest.

According to the ambassador, the Romanian side expressed solidarity with Germany and protested against alleged hybrid actions attributed to Russia, which authorities say are intended to divide European society. Lipaev said all the allegations were rejected during the meeting.

Romania’s interim foreign minister, Oana Țoiu, had announced the summoning of the Russian ambassador “in full solidarity with Germany.” The move came after the German government officially attributed responsibility for the incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport to Russia and announced retaliatory measures.

Berlin’s decisions include closing the Russian Consulate General in Bonn by September 18, terminating the agreement on the “Russian House” in Berlin, tightening border controls for Russian citizens and increasing pressure on Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet.” Russia’s ambassador to Germany, Sergey Nechaev, also rejected the allegations made by German authorities.