“Turning Point 2.0”: Merz wants tough sanctions against Russia

2026-08-29

Germany is preparing a major escalation in its policy toward Russia after authorities reportedly linked Moscow to a failed explosive-drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport. Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government is now considering a sweeping package of new sanctions.

According to reports cited by FOCUS online, the German government plans to officially hold Russia responsible for the attempted attack. People familiar with the plans have described the expected shift as a “Zeitenwende 2.0”, referring to another major turning point in Germany’s security and foreign policy.

The planned response is expected to combine German measures with new European Union sanctions. The package could be announced at the beginning of next week, although officials have not yet disclosed the full details of the proposed measures.

One possible element is increased military support for Ukraine, potentially including additional weapons deliveries. At the European level, officials are also working on a broader sanctions package against Russia, with restrictions reportedly being considered against a large number of individuals and companies.

The suspected Leipzig incident comes amid growing concerns in Europe over alleged Russian involvement in a series of security incidents. German authorities have reportedly uncovered a weapons cache near Berlin and are investigating links to a Ukrainian man suspected of acting on behalf of Russian intelligence services.

The planned measures would mark a significant hardening of Germany’s approach toward Moscow under Merz. Berlin is also expected to face pressure to coordinate closely with its European partners, particularly as the EU considers further sanctions and debates how to use frozen Russian state assets.