Kathmandu— Germany is experiencing a daily barrage of “hybrid warfare” attacks originating from abroad, according to Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, who spoke days after authorities discovered an explosives-filled drone at Leipzig/Halle Airport. The minister stated that these actions—which include espionage, sabotage, cyberattacks, and covert operations—are aimed at politically and socially destabilizing Germany by instilling fear. He emphasized that while not formally at war, the country is a consistent target of such activities.

Escalating Drone Incidents

The comments from Minister Dobrindt followed the discovery on Tuesday of a drone carrying explosives at Leipzig/Halle Airport in eastern Germany. This incident has prompted some German lawmakers to suspect Russian involvement, given the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine since 2022. The Russian embassy in Berlin swiftly dismissed these claims, labeling the event a “fabricated provocation” and another instance of unfounded accusations against Moscow.

Beyond Leipzig/Halle, Germany’s armed forces reported spotting two drones over a military base in Mechernich, North Rhine-Westphalia, late Thursday. Simultaneously, an explosion involving a drone occurred near Bulgaria's Trans-Balkan gas pipeline on Saturday; however, Bulgarian authorities currently see no evidence of intentional sabotage and are collaborating with Ukraine to investigate.

Strengthening Counter-Drone Capabilities

In response to these escalating threats, Germany is planning to significantly bolster its anti-drone defenses. According to government sources cited by Bild, the Interior Ministry intends to double the number of federal anti-drone experts from 150 to 300 and expand the network of related bases from four to eight. This expansion aims to enhance Germany’s ability to detect, identify, and neutralize potential drone threats.

The recent incidents have also sparked broader concerns within NATO and the European Union about Russia's war in Ukraine potentially spilling over into neighboring countries, with previous drone sightings already attributed to Russian activity.

Broader Hybrid Warfare Concerns

Dobrindt characterized the attacks as a constant reality, encompassing not only drones but also espionage, sabotage, cyberattacks and covert operations. He stated that these actions are intended to destabilize Germany or cause direct harm. While he refrained from naming specific countries responsible for the alleged attacks, his comments underscore a growing sense of vulnerability within German security circles.

The series of drone incidents across Europe has heightened anxieties about potential spillover effects from the conflict in Ukraine and prompted increased vigilance among NATO and EU member states.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.