German foreign minister seeks Algerian gas as Berlin plans response to Leipzig drone incident

Johann Wadephul arrived in Algiers to negotiate long-term gas contracts, describing Algeria as a reliable partner that already supplies Italy and Spain and could later provide green hydrogen. He underscored the urgency of diversifying energy supplies amid constraints on the Strait of Hormuz and noted that Germany’s gas storage is only about 50% full, far below the 70% target for November. At a press briefing, Wadephul said Berlin would respond to the August drone incident at Leipzig airport with a firm yet measured approach, without overreacting, and warned that any aggressor must understand Germany will not be intimidated.

The foreign minister met with Energy Minister Mohamed Arkab and is expected to meet President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, following a prior stop in Tunisia with Head of State Kais Saied and his counterpart Mohammed Ali Nafti. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has indicated that an investigation into the drone attack is nearing completion and that a coordinated response with NATO and EU allies will follow. The visit also included meetings with German business representatives, reflecting the broader economic dimension of the trip.