The message of solidarity from the United States to Germany and its NATO allies came after a drone was found at Leipzig-Halle Airport on August 4. In a statement posted on X, Whitaker said the Alliance remained committed to collective defense against attempts to cause damage and chaos on NATO territory.
Whitaker said allies also needed to increase their own defense capabilities to deter threats against NATO.

A drone was detected at the airport
A drone believed to be carrying an explosive device was found near a Ukrainian transport aircraft at Leipzig-Halle Airport in Germany.
U.S. intelligence claimed that the drone’s characteristics were distinctive of Russian military intelligence.
Berlin announces measures against Russia
Germany held Russia responsible for the incident. The government in Berlin announced that the Russian Consulate General in Bonn would be closed effective September 18 and that the contract concerning the Russian House in Berlin would be terminated.