Kathmandu— The European Union is planning to impose additional sanctions on Russia after Berlin accused Moscow of orchestrating a failed drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport in August. EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas warned that attempts to intimidate Europe would fail and announced new proposals to tighten sanctions enforcement, including targeting an additional 1,600 individuals and entities linked to Russia’s military sector.

Failed Drone Attack

On August 4, three drones carrying explosives were discovered at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany. The incident temporarily disrupted air traffic and led Berlin to accuse Moscow of orchestrating the attack. Kallas described it as “state-sponsored terrorism” and emphasized that such attempts would not intimidate Europe.

Sanctions Expansion

Kallas announced that the EU is working on new proposals to tighten sanctions enforcement, including sanctioning an additional 1,600 individuals and entities linked to Russia’s military sector. She also highlighted support among EU foreign ministers for a ban on former Russian military personnel from visiting the EU and tightening visa restrictions for Russian tourists.

Russian Response

Russia has denied involvement in the drone attack, with President Vladimir Putin alleging that evidence had been “planted.” The Russian foreign ministry summoned Germany’s envoy to Moscow, Bernd Finke, stating that Moscow categorically rejected being behind the failed drone attack.

The EU continues to apply pressure on Russia through sanctions without resorting to military means. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said authorities are looking into ways to cut deeper into Russia’s war chest.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.