U.S. and German authorities have thwarted a Russian plot to assassinate Armin Papperger, the CEO of Rheinmetall AG, a leading German arms manufacturer. According to sources, U.S. intelligence agencies discovered the plan earlier this year and alerted Germany. The targeted company produces artillery rounds and armored vehicles for Ukraine, with plans to expand production within the country.
This assassination attempt is believed to be part of a broader campaign by Moscow to disrupt arms deliveries to Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russian forces. NATO, European governments, and U.S. officials have recently issued warnings about Russia’s increasing subversive activities designed to weaken Western support for Ukraine.
White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson expressed concern over Russia’s escalated sabotage efforts but did not comment specifically on the Rheinmetall case. Both U.S. and NATO officials emphasize that such Russian actions will not deter continued support for Ukraine.
The plot against Papperger is among several targeting European defense industry leaders and is considered to have been more advanced. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg recently mentioned plans to impose further restrictions on Russian intelligence operatives and to enhance the security of critical infrastructure.
Russia has been implicated in various sabotage attempts across Europe, including arson, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns. A report by the Royal United Services Institute underscores ongoing efforts by Russia’s GRU to establish an espionage and sabotage network in Europe.
Rheinmetall’s continued collaboration with Ukraine aims to bolster Kyiv’s defense capabilities and reduce its dependency on Western aid. The company has announced joint ventures to produce artillery ammunition and armored vehicles within Ukraine.
This disrupted plot highlighted the ongoing threats posed by Russian espionage and sabotage efforts, reinforcing the resolve of European and U.S. authorities to support Ukraine.
Original Story https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/12/us-germany-foil-alleged-russian-plot-to-assassinate-arms-firm-ceo.html
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