In a significant development, US and German intelligence agencies have thwarted a Russian plot to assassinate Armin Papperger, the chief executive of Rheinmetall AG, a major German arms manufacturer producing weapons for Ukraine. According to multiple sources familiar with the matter, this was one of several Russian plans targeting defense industry executives across Europe who were supporting Ukraine's war effort.
The plot against Papperger was the most mature among these plans and represented a significant escalation in Moscow's campaign to undermine Western support for Ukraine. The US intelligence agencies discovered the plot earlier this year and informed their German counterparts, who took measures to protect Papperger.
Rheinmetall AG is a leading arms manufacturer based in Germany that has been producing artillery shells and military vehicles for Ukraine since the beginning of its conflict with Russia. This makes it a critical supplier for Ukraine's war effort and an attractive target for Russian intelligence services.
The attempted assassination plot against Papperger is not an isolated incident. Russian military intelligence has carried out a series of arsons aimed at disrupting the supply of weapons and other materiel to Ukraine, prompting expulsions of undercover spies and warnings from NATO. This latest development underscores the ongoing efforts by Russia to undermine Western support for Ukraine's war effort.
The US intelligence agencies have been monitoring Russian activities closely and have warned their European allies about potential threats. The German security services, in turn, have taken measures to protect key figures in the defense industry who are supporting Ukraine. This collaboration between US and German intelligence agencies is a testament to the strong alliance between these two countries and their commitment to supporting Ukraine's sovereignty.
The attempted assassination plot against Papperger is a reminder of the ongoing risks faced by those who support Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. It also highlights the importance of maintaining strong intelligence capabilities and close cooperation between allies to counter Russian aggression.
