German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has suggested that Russia was likely behind the wave of drone sightings across Germany over the weekend, which caused widespread travel disruptions and grounded several flights at Munich Airport.
Speaking on Sunday, Merz said the frequency and scale of the incursions into European airspace were unprecedented, even compared with Cold War times. He added that while none of the drones appeared to be armed, they were believed to be conducting reconnaissance operations.
“Our assumption is that Russia is behind most of these drone flights,” the Chancellor stated, confirming that German authorities are investigating the incidents in collaboration with European partners.
Dozens of flights were diverted or cancelled at Munich Airport on Friday after both runways were closed following drone sightings. Operations resumed, with delays, on Saturday morning. Security officials have since heightened surveillance and tightened flight restrictions in southern Germany as the investigation continues.
The alleged Russian drone activity underscores growing concerns in Europe about hybrid threats—blending espionage, cyber operations, and unmanned aerial surveillance—targeting critical infrastructure and civilian systems.
Melissa Enoch
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