Suspected Russian Sabotage Nearly Caused German Plane Crash, German Intelligence Chief Says

Germany narrowly avoided a plane crash earlier this year due to a suspected act of sabotage. Thomas Haldenwang, President of the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, disclosed that a parcel destined for the hold of an aircraft caught fire at a DHL logistics center in Leipzig, averting a potentially catastrophic event. He stated that if the fire had occurred mid-flight, it “would have resulted in a crash.” The type of aircraft—whether passenger or cargo—was not specified.

According to Financial Times, German intelligence agencies are reportedly investigating the incident, with a focus on possible Russian involvement. The exact recipient of the parcel remains unclear.

Speaking before a parliamentary committee, Haldenwang, along with other senior intelligence officials, highlighted a notable increase in espionage and sabotage activities linked to Russia. “We are witnessing aggressive behavior by Russian intelligence services, which is putting lives at risk,” he stated. The intelligence chief emphasized that these actions affect multiple aspects of German society.

Bruno Kahl, head of Germany’s foreign intelligence service, noted that Russia’s covert activities have reached an unprecedented level, with Moscow likely testing “the West’s red lines.” He warned of further potential escalation in the confrontation between NATO and Russia, following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Martina Rosenberg, who leads Germany’s military counter-intelligence service, expressed concern over foreign intelligence attempts to spy on the country’s military forces. These efforts appear to target details on Germany’s arms deliveries to Ukraine and military training programs for Ukrainian soldiers. Rosenberg also noted Russian attempts to create a sense of insecurity through sabotage.

Last week, Ken McCallum, head of Britain’s MI5, warned of Russia’s efforts to create disorder in the UK. Similar incidents of suspected Russian sabotage have been reported across Europe this year, including arson attacks in London and Warsaw, and a plot to assassinate the CEO of Rheinmetall, a German defense manufacturer supplying Ukraine.