The United States thwarted a Russian attempt to assassinate Armin Papperger, Rheinmetall’s CEO, a key German arms manufacturer that supplies weapons to Ukraine.
According to CNN, citing five unnamed US and Western officials, the U.S. informed Germany of Russia’s plan, leading to increased protection for Papperger by German security services.
CNN reports that Rheinmetall’s CEO attempt is part of a broader series of Russian efforts to eliminate European defence industry leaders who are aiding Ukraine’s military efforts. Rheinmetall, known for producing 155mm artillery shells, is also preparing to manufacture armoured vehicles in Ukraine.
This revelation coincides with NATO’s 75th-anniversary meetings in Washington, highlighting the tensions within the alliance regarding Russia’s aggressive tactics. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock commented on the situation, emphasizing the increasing clarity in recent months that Russia is engaged in a hybrid war. This war includes sabotage, cyberattacks, and disruptive actions such as GPS jamming, impacting aviation in the Baltic states.
Baerbock stressed the necessity for Europe to protect itself effectively and avoid naivety in the face of these threats. She noted that attacks on individuals and factories within European territory have underscored the serious nature of these threats.
While declining to comment specifically on the Rheinmetall case, a spokesperson for the German Interior Ministry emphasized that the German government takes Russia’s threats seriously. The spokesperson assured that German security authorities maintain vigilance and actively collaborate with international partners. However, they could not disclose details regarding specific protective measures and intelligence findings.
Rheinmetall’s spokesperson, Oliver Hoffmann, also refrained from discussing specific security issues but confirmed that the company takes necessary measures in regular consultation with security authorities.
