Germany Stands Firm Amid Reported Russian Assassination Plot

The German government refused to comment on reports of a Russian plot to assassinate Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger, affirming its commitment to support Ukraine. American intelligence reportedly foiled the plot, enhancing German security measures against Russian aggression. Germany remains Ukraine's second-largest arms supplier.

The German government declared on Friday that it “won't be intimidated” by Russian efforts to undermine its support for Ukraine, despite refusing to comment on reports of a Moscow-led assassination plot against a top defense executive.

CNN, citing US and Western officials, reported that Russia planned to kill Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger, a supplier of military technology to Ukraine. US intelligence allegedly alerted Germany, enabling its security services to thwart the plot and protect Papperger.

Neither Rheinmetall nor German officials would discuss the alleged plot. Interior Ministry spokesperson Maximilian Kall said they can’t comment on “individual threat situations,” but emphasized that the German government is well aware of Russian aggression and has ramped up security measures since 2022.

Germany has become a pivotal ally to Ukraine, being the second-largest arms supplier after the United States since Russia's full-scale invasion began.

CNN also indicated that the attempt on Papperger’s life was part of a broader Russian strategy to eliminate defense industry leaders across Europe who support Ukraine.