Explosive Devices in Germany and UK Linked to Alleged Covert Russian Plot Targeting Flights to North America
In July, explosive devices detonating in DHL logistics hubs in Germany and the UK signaled what Western security officials now believe was a covert Russian operation intended to test methods of starting fires aboard cargo and passenger flights bound for the United States and Canada, according to a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) report. This plot involved incendiary devices placed in packages that were shipped to DHL hubs in Leipzig, Germany, and Birmingham, UK, where the devices ignited, sparking a rapid and far-reaching investigation to identify those involved.
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Upon detecting the explosive incidents, DHL confirmed the occurrences, noting it was “aware of two recent incidents involving shipments in our network.” The company stated it was cooperating fully with relevant authorities to investigate the origins and intention behind these dangerous packages. According to the WSJ, the devices were cleverly disguised as electric massagers but contained a magnesium-based flammable substance. They were sent to the UK from Lithuania in what appears to have been a trial effort by suspected Russian agents to determine if incendiary devices could be successfully transported aboard flights destined for North America.
When questioned about the alleged plot, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov firmly denied any Russian involvement. “We have never heard any official accusations of Russian involvement,” he said in a statement to WSJ, calling the allegations “traditional unsubstantiated insinuations from the media.” CNN has reached out to the Kremlin for additional comments on the suspected operation but has not yet received a response.
U.S. Officials Monitor Threat While Polish Authorities Make Key Arrests in International Sabotage Investigation
Meanwhile, the suspected threat level has been downplayed in the United States, with a U.S. government official telling CNN that there is currently “no active threat targeting U.S.-bound flights.” However, the nature of the plot and the covert methods involved have prompted officials to remain vigilant, particularly given the history of Russian intelligence operations across Europe in recent years.
The investigation has already led to arrests. In October, Polish authorities reported the detention of four individuals suspected of involvement in an international sabotage ring, while an international search was initiated for two additional suspects. A statement from Poland’s national prosecutor’s office confirmed that “parcels containing camouflaged explosives and dangerous materials” were shipped via courier to several countries in the European Union, as well as the UK. These packages reportedly ignited spontaneously or exploded in transit, a disturbing pattern that points to a coordinated testing phase by the perpetrators. The Polish authorities added that the group’s goal was to test delivery routes for packages carrying such explosive devices, which were ultimately intended for North American destinations.
UK Investigators Probe Package Incident Linked to Broader Russian Sabotage Campaign Across NATO Nations
In the UK, the investigation is ongoing. Counter-terrorism police in Birmingham confirmed an incident at a commercial site in Midpoint Way on July 22, when a package spontaneously ignited. Local fire services were called in to contain the incident, which resulted in no injuries or significant property damage. A spokesperson from UK counter-terrorism police stated that they are currently “liaising with other European law enforcement partners to identify whether this may or may not be connected to any other similar-type incidents across Europe.”
According to CNN, the incidents come amid what officials describe as a “bold” Russian sabotage campaign across NATO states, aimed at disrupting supply chains and targeting the decision-makers involved in supporting Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. A senior NATO official reported that Russia’s sabotage operations in NATO countries have intensified over the past six months, focusing specifically on obstructing weapons supplies to Ukraine. In this complex, covert warfare, Russian operatives are increasingly relying on local recruits for high-risk tasks that provide a layer of deniability for Russian intelligence agencies.
A DHL aircraft positioned at the DHL Air Hub in Leipzig, Germany. Credit: Heiko Rebsch/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images
European security officials describe a “metastasizing” threat as Russian agents, frequently under scrutiny by European security services, seek to outsource their operations to local intermediaries, including amateurs, for dangerous acts of sabotage. The method has made it difficult for law enforcement to directly trace back these crimes to Russia, adding layers of complexity to international security efforts.
This clandestine strategy underscores Russia’s adaptation to tighter security oversight across Europe. By using “proxy” operatives within target countries, Russian intelligence can attempt high-stakes missions with reduced risk of directly implicating Moscow. According to security analysts, this growing reliance on local operatives marks a shift in Russia’s approach to modern espionage, posing a significant challenge to Western counterintelligence as they try to preempt further incidents and safeguard critical infrastructure across NATO territories.
The full extent of the incendiary plot is still unfolding, but investigators across Europe remain focused on tracking down those responsible, seeking to prevent what could have been a catastrophic escalation in trans-Atlantic security vulnerabilities.
