According to media reports by CNN and Tagesschau published on July 12th, the Russian government had allegedly planned an attack on Armin Papperger, the head of the arms company Rheinmetall, with murderous intentions.
This plan was uncovered by US intelligence, which informed German authorities to protect Papperger against possible assailants.
Rheinmetall is known for its support of Ukraine through arms deliveries, making it a likely target for Russian interests.
Details of the Plot
The information, confirmed by five officials from the US and other Western countries, indicates that the plan against Papperger was part of a broader scheme targeting executives of European arms companies.
A German government official confirmed to CNN that Berlin had received warnings about the assassination plot.
Rheinmetall has not commented on the report.
Western intelligence services had noticed suspicious travel by suspected agents in recent months. This activity led to the information that reached German security authorities about two months ago.
Armin Papperger has been a vocal supporter of increased arms deliveries to Ukraine and has announced plans to expand cooperation. This stance likely increased his prominence as a target for Russian operations.
Official Reactions
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock commented on the revelations at the NATO summit.
Baerbock stated that these incidents confirm Russia's hybrid war tactics and necessitate the need for European unity and protection.
The German federal government did not provide specific comments on the report but stressed the importance of vigilance and close cooperation between security authorities and international partners.
