The German government is taking decisive action in response to alarming reports of an assassination plot targeting Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall, a leading manufacturer of artillery shells and weapons for Ukraine.
This development follows revelations from CNN and The New York Times, which indicated that US intelligence had uncovered a Russian scheme aimed at eliminating Papperger.
According to CNN, the assassination plot is one among several targeting defense industry executives in Europe.
German intelligence has been closely monitoring individuals from former Soviet states, including at least one Russian citizen believed to be linked to Russian intelligence. However, there has been insufficient evidence to warrant any arrests thus far.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stressed that Germany would not be cowed by Russian threats and would maintain its steadfast approach to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
“We will not allow ourselves to be intimidated by Russia and will continue to do everything we can to prevent Russian threats in Germany,” Faeser asserted.
US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has refrained from commenting on the specific details of the assassination attempt on Papperger.
Meanwhile, Konstantin von Notz, a member of the Green party, criticized previous reactions to such threats as being too passive, declaring that the era of appeasement towards Russian aggression is over.
Papperger, a vocal advocate for increased arms shipments to Ukraine and higher defense spending in Germany, has expressed confidence in CNN’s findings. However, the Kremlin has dismissed these allegations, with press secretary Dmitry Peskov labeling the reports as “fake news.”
Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has hinted that Russia might retaliate against Rheinmetall’s facilities in Ukraine. This assassination threat has sent ripples of concern throughout the arms industry, prompting Rheinmetall to bolster its security measures.
Rheinmetall has been actively involved in Ukraine, having recently opened a repair and production workshop for armored vehicles in collaboration with Ukroboronprom.
Despite the rising security concerns, Rheinmetall has not disclosed specific protective measures but noted that regular consultations with security authorities are ongoing.
This incident adds to a backdrop of escalating tensions between Germany and Russia. These tensions have included previous arrests for suspected sabotage and state-sponsored assassination efforts, such as the 2019 murder of a dissident in Berlin.
Justice Minister Marco Buschmann emphasized the gravity of the new assassination reports, noting that Russian actions have historically included such threats.
In recent reports, Germany’s federal government has recorded numerous suspicious drone sightings over military bases, further indicating the heightened security concerns amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The situation has underscored the persistent threats faced by key figures in the defense industry and has sparked a robust response from the German government.
As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, the stakes for European defense executives remain perilously high.
The international community will be closely watching how these developments unfold and the measures Germany implements to safeguard its leaders and maintain stability within its borders.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
