Russia Accused of Plotting Sabotage Against U.S.-Bound Aircraft

The Wall Street Journal reports that DHL warehouse fires were part of a Russian plot.

Russ Niles

Tuesday, November 05, 2024 at 12:07 PM ET

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Edited By: tccjeremy

A DHL cargo jet at Miami International Airport. [Courtesy: DHL]

Key Takeaways:

Russia is accused by The Wall Street Journal of plotting to start fires aboard cargo and passenger aircraft flying from Europe to Canada and the U.S.
"Dress rehearsals" for the plot involved magnesium-packed hand massagers causing explosions at DHL hubs in Germany and England, which were handled without significant damage.
Four people have been arrested in Poland in connection with the plot, which reportedly reflects a new Russian strategy of using local amateurs for sabotage.

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The Wall Street Journal is reporting Russia was behind a plot to start fires aboard cargo and passenger aircraft heading from Europe to Canada and the U.S.

The publication reported that explosions at DHL hubs in Leipzig, Germany, and Birmingham, England, in July were dress rehearsals for the plot, which was apparently aimed at bringing down the aircraft. Reuters reported that the Journal cited Western security officials as its sources.