Russian Threats Against Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger
Armin Papperger, the CEO of German arms giant Rheinmetall, has been the target of multiple threats and attacks, with the latest being a planned assassination attempt allegedly orchestrated by Russian agents. This revelation comes amidst heightened tensions and increased arms deliveries to Ukraine, where Rheinmetall plays a pivotal role. According to reports from CNN, US intelligence services uncovered the Russian plot and informed German authorities, leading to enhanced security measures for Papperger.
Increased Security Amid Rising Tensions
The security around Papperger has been significantly tightened. He is now constantly accompanied by bodyguards, and a police car is permanently stationed outside Rheinmetall’s headquarters in Düsseldorf. This level of protection is unusual for a businessman but necessary given the threats. The German government has taken these threats seriously, with Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stating, “We will not be intimidated by Russia and will continue to do everything possible to prevent Russian threats in Germany.”
Rheinmetall's Role in Supporting Ukraine
Rheinmetall is one of Europe’s largest suppliers of tank technology and artillery shells, crucial for Ukraine’s defense against Russia. The company has seen enormous growth, with plans to double its ammunition production. Papperger has been vocal about the need to increase arms deliveries to Ukraine and has urged the German government to boost defense spending. The company is also building a factory in Ukraine to produce infantry fighting vehicles locally, further solidifying its role in the conflict. This has undoubtedly placed Papperger in Moscow’s crosshairs.
- The fire brigade in Hermannsburg, Lower Saxony, responded to an arson attack on Papperger’s garden house on April 29, with a letter of confession from the left-wing extremist scene demanding the release of imprisoned RAF terrorist Daniela Klette. This incident, along with the alleged Russian assassination plot, highlights the multifaceted threats faced by Papperger.
- The Diehl Group, another German arms supplier to Ukraine, also experienced a fire in May, which was initially attributed to a technical defect. However, speculation persists about Russian sabotage, with reports suggesting that Russia often recruits criminals through social networks to carry out such acts.
- The 2019 Tiergarten murder in Berlin, where a Chechen dissident was killed by a Russian agent, serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which Russian intelligence is willing to go. The Bavarian Ministry of the Interior has reported increased Russian espionage activities in Germany, particularly targeting military facilities where Ukrainian soldiers are trained.
