The German government treats the alleged Russian plot to kill Rheinmetall chief Armin Papperger with utmost seriousness. Rheinmetall is a key supplier of weapons to Ukraine, making the company a sensitive target in the broader security debate. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stated that threats are not commented on individually, but the government acts in close cooperation with allies to protect Germany and its citizens and to thwart Vladimir Putin’s plans.
The government has not publicly disclosed the full details of the plans that were reportedly discussed on a confidential basis by the administration and the rest of the Scholz cabinet. The information surfaced on Thursday through the American network CNN and was later amplified by the German weekly Der Spiegel. According to the Spiegel report, German intelligence received information in May from allied intelligence sources about Russian threats to the weapons maker, though specifics were not provided. The suspicion centers on a suspected network of individuals from former Soviet states, including at least one Russian, who are believed to be acting as agents paid by Moscow. Authorities have not arrested anyone due to a lack of conclusive evidence.
CNN disseminated details of the alleged plot on Thursday, and these accounts were subsequently corroborated by other German outlets. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, speaking from Washington, suggested that the Russian president is waging a hybrid war against Europe. She outlined a strategy that includes cyberattacks, sabotage, disinformation campaigns, and even attacks targeting people on European soil as part of Moscow’s broader effort, remarks she made during a NATO summit session.
Principal supplier
Rheinmetall stands as Germany’s leading arms supplier to Ukraine and ranks as the second-largest international contributor of military aid to Kyiv after the United States. The material delivered to date ranges from ammunition to Leopard tanks, as well as other armored vehicles and howitzers.
Rheinmetall, headquartered in Düsseldorf, recently signed a contract with the Ministry of Defense for ammunition production valued at 8.5 billion euros. The company is also slated to manufacture weapons on Ukrainian soil once a dedicated plant is completed there.
Armin Papperger, aged 61, holds a position of notable public profile in Germany beyond his role as head of a major arms supplier. In recent times, his firm took on a sponsorship with Borussia Dortmund, a decision that has divided some fans who feel uncomfortable with the association between a football club and a weapons manufacturer. Papperger now lives under enhanced security after a series of threats and an arson attack at his home.
The evolving situation underscores questions about security, accountability, and the influence of defense industries in European geopolitics. Officials emphasize vigilance and international cooperation as they monitor potential threats and assess the implications for ongoing military support to Ukraine. Analysts note that while the specifics of the alleged plot remain under review, the broader context involves a strategic confrontation between Western allies and Russia that spans cyber, political, and military dimensions. Citations accompany these insights from major outlets and official statements, reflecting a spectrum of perspectives on the risks, responses, and policy choices facing Germany and its partners in the region.