Germany's Wadephul warns of escalating Russian aggression in Europe

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Wednesday warned of Russia's escalating aggression against Europe.

"Russia's hybrid attacks against those who support Ukraine, support international law, have reached a new level," Wadephul said at a UN Security Council meeting on the sidelines of the General Assembly in New York.

Wadephul referred to an attempted attack at Germany's Leipzig airport in early August, saying Russia had tried to blow up two Ukrainian cargo planes using a drone rigged with explosives.

"This is not an isolated example of Russia's reckless and dangerous escalation in Europe, and we must not forget that the consequences of this war are being felt around the world," he said. 

Russia denies any involvement in the incident.

Wadephul said Russia was "exacerbating hunger and starvation worldwide" as Ukrainian grain could not be exported due to attacks on ports.

"Let us finally escape this spiral of destruction and violence," he told the meeting.

He repeated calls for a full and immediate ceasefire as well as an exchange of prisoners of war.

"We need a return to negotiations in good faith, based on the principles of international law, paving the way for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace."

Ukraine was ready for such negotiations but Russia continued to refuse, he said.

"Ukraine is ready. We Europeans are ready, and Germany stands ready to contribute to a peaceful outcome we urgently need."