US intelligence agencies uncovered a Russian plot to assassinate Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger (61) earlier this year.
According to CNN, Russia targeted the head of the German defense company because Rheinmetall supplied Ukraine with artillery shells and military vehicles in the fight against Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin’s aggression.
The US intelligence relied on information from five American and Western insiders familiar with the matter. Besides Papperger, other heads of the European defense industry were reportedly on Putin’s hit list. The plan to kill Papperger was said to be well advanced.
Papperger at a Rheinmetall plant in Lower Saxony
CNN reported that US intelligence promptly informed German authorities and a German government official confirmed the warning from the US regarding the assassination plot.
Amidst heightened security measures, Rheinmetall declined to comment on corporate security matters but assured ongoing coordination with law enforcement to ensure necessary precautions.
Rheinmetall Enters Soccer Scene
In late May, Rheinmetall caused a stir by announcing a three-year partnership with Borussia Dortmund, injecting over 20 million euros as a “Champions Partner” for the Champions League finalists.
The move sparked controversy among fans, with club executive Hans-Joachim Watzke defending the deal in light of the ongoing conflict in Europe and the importance of modern defense technology.