US and Germany Thwart Russian Plot to Assassinate Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger
Washington [US], July 11 – Earlier this year, US intelligence discovered a plan by Russia to assassinate Armin Papperger, the CEO of German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall. This company has been supporting Ukraine with artillery shells and military vehicles. The plot was part of a larger scheme targeting European defense industry executives aiding Ukraine.
Upon learning of the threat, US officials alerted Germany, allowing German security services to protect Papperger and prevent the assassination. A senior German official confirmed that Berlin had been warned by the US about the danger to Papperger’s life.
For over six months, Russia has been conducting a sabotage campaign across Europe, including arson attacks and vandalism. This campaign aims to undermine public support for Ukraine. The revelation of assassination plots highlights Russia’s commitment to a covert shadow war in the West.
Armin Papperger was a prime target due to Rheinmetall’s role in producing 155mm artillery shells crucial for Ukraine. Rheinmetall is also set to open an armored vehicle plant in Ukraine, which concerns Russia.
Despite initial gains, Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine have stalled. NATO officials warn that Russia’s sabotage activities could escalate into armed conflict in Eastern Europe. A senior NATO official stated, “We’re seeing sabotage, assassination plots, and arson, which have a cost in human lives.”
The National Security Council (NSC) declined to comment on the specifics but acknowledged Russia’s intensifying campaign of subversion. NSC spokesperson Adrienne Watson said, “The United States is working with NATO Allies to expose and disrupt these activities.”
Russia’s sabotage campaign has been a major topic at NATO’s 75th-anniversary summit. NATO is enhancing intelligence sharing to connect the dots between criminal activities in member countries. However, Russia’s actions, including lethal attacks on European citizens, raise questions about NATO’s response.
Some incidents, like a fire at an IKEA store in Lithuania, have been linked to Russia’s broader campaign. Analysts describe these operations as a “hybrid” campaign blending military tactics with propaganda and sabotage. However, US and European officials are hesitant to categorize Russia’s actions solely as hybrid warfare.
Recently, US military bases in Europe were placed on heightened alert due to potential Russian-backed sabotage attacks. In April, two German-Russian nationals were arrested for planning attacks on US military installations. Other incidents include arson attacks in Poland and London, and the arrest of a Russian-Ukrainian national in France for assembling explosives.
A senior NATO official emphasized that Russia sees a window of opportunity to undermine public support for Ukraine before more Western weapons reach Ukrainian forces. This makes it a strategic moment for targeting Western interests.