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 of orchestrating a plot to start fires on cargo and passenger aircraft flying from Europe to Canada and the U.S.
The plot involved "dress rehearsal" explosions at DHL hubs in Leipzig, Germany, and Birmingham, England, in July, using incendiary devices disguised as hand massagers packed with magnesium.
The fires in the test runs were contained on the ground, and four people have been arrested in Poland in connection with the scheme, with two others at large.
This operation reportedly signals a new strategy by Russian intelligence to employ local amateurs for their covert activities.

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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.