Russia Doubts Cyber Fraud and Media Rumors About Rheinmetall Chief
The Kremlin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, dismissed circulating reports that Russia planned to eliminate Armin Papperger, the chief executive of the German arms maker Rheinmetall. In a briefing with journalists, Peskov described such claims as built on anonymous sources and presented in a forged style. He stressed that the Kremlin does not see any credible basis for these allegations and urged readers to be wary of sensationalist reporting that lacks solid facts.
Peskov emphasized that comments from various media outlets should be treated with caution, noting that many stories do not involve serious discussion and rely on unnamed informants. He argued that these reports often aim to mislead public perception rather than provide verifiable information and called them unworthy of serious consideration.
On July 11, CNN reported that American and German intelligence services foiled an assassination plot targeting Papperger. The article claimed that U.S. intelligence had earlier detected indications that the Russian government intended to remove the Rheinmetall chief, describing the plan as notably detailed. The intelligence findings reportedly reached German security authorities, who then took action to safeguard Papperger and prevent harm.
The CNN piece argued that Rheinmetall became an apparent target because it stands as a leading German producer of 155mm artillery shells supplied to Ukraine and has an armoured vehicle production facility operating within Ukrainian territory. The report linked the company’s prominence in Western military support to a perceived strategic vulnerability in the eyes of adversaries.
Following the reported intervention, a former Rheinmetall chairman acknowledged the preventive measures but gave the impression that the thwarted plot had a significant impact on perceptions surrounding the company. Observers note that such announcements can influence investor sentiment, security assessments, and the broader narrative around Western defense industries in wartime conditions. Analysts also remind readers that intelligence reports, especially those regarding covert operations, often carry uncertainties and require careful verification by multiple sources. (CNN)