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Rheinmetall CEO Says Russia Planned His Assassination Over Arms Aid to Ukraine

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Rheinmetall CEO Says Russia Planned His Assassination Over Arms Aid to Ukraine
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall, speaks at the Federation of German Industries conference in Berlin on June 25, 2024. (Source: Getty Images)

Armin Papperger, the CEO of Rheinmetall, stated that Russia targeted him due to the company’s role in supplying Western arms. He emphasized that Moscow views Rheinmetall’s support for Ukraine and other allied nations as a direct threat, making it a key target in its broader efforts to undermine European defense capabilities.

In an interview with BNS during his visit to Lithuania, Papperger emphasized that Russia was not very pleased with Rheinmetall’s role in supporting Western defense efforts.

“I believe it is quite clear that countries like Russia are not very satisfied with the fact that we, as the world’s largest producer of large-caliber ammunition, are significantly contributing to the defense capabilities of Western nations,” he said.

His remarks followed NATO’s confirmation on January 28 that Russian authorities had planned his assassination. According to the Alliance, the plot was thwarted through the efforts of American and German intelligence. The attempt was reportedly part of a broader effort by Russia to target executives in the European defense industry.

Papperger noted that law enforcement agencies are currently ensuring his security.

Rheinmetall is Germany’s largest and most prominent manufacturer of 155mm artillery shells, which have played a key role in Ukraine’s defense efforts.

Earlier, Rheinmetall announced plans to establish four defense factories in Ukraine to boost the country’s self-sufficiency in military production. The first facility, already operational, focuses on Lynx infantry fighting vehicles, while the others will produce gunpowder, NATO-standard ammunition, and air defense systems, aligning Ukraine’s production with NATO standards and replacing outdated Soviet-era capabilities.

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