Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev on Wednesday threatened Germany with "a direct strike" against military production facilities working with Ukraine after Berlin formally blamed Moscow for the failed drone attack at Leipzig airport last month.
In a statement on Telegram, the deputy chair of the Russian national security council, who is known for his vile rhetoric, said defence contractors working for Ukraine should be targeted - alongside "a few other places in Berlin."
German officials ended weeks of speculation on Tuesday when they publicly held Russia responsible for an explosives-laden drone discovered near Ukrainian cargo aircraft at the eastern German airport on August 4.
Germany is the biggest supplier of military aid to Ukraine and Leipzig/Halle Airport is an important hub for the delivery of weapons.
In response to the incident, Germany has decided to close the consulate general in Bonn, and terminate the lease of Russian House, a Russian cultural institution in central Berlin.
Russia has denied any involvement in the incident, but said following the German announcement that it would impose countermeasures.
Medvedev accused German authorities of having made up the failed attack, claiming there was no evidence to back up the claims.
Medvedev denounced the "current German leadership"as "neo-Nazi" and "extremely Russophobic," adding that Moscow regards the incident as a "provocation" that serves Ukraine's interests.