Germany on High Alert After Foiled Assassination Plot Against Rheinmetall CEO

The German government is taking threats against Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger seriously, following reported Russian assassination plots. Germany's interior and justice ministers vowed to maintain defense against Russian intimidation. The reports have sparked increased security measures for defense industry executives across Europe who support Ukraine.

Berlin is treating reports of a plot to assassinate Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger with utmost seriousness and will not succumb to Russian intimidation, officials said. U.S. intelligence revealed a Russian plan to kill Papperger, whose firm supplies military hardware to Ukraine.

This plot is part of a broader scheme targeting European defense industry leaders aiding Ukraine, as reported by CNN. Washington alerted Germany, enabling them to protect Papperger. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized Germany's resilience against Russian threats.

Rheinmetall has implemented increased security measures in consultation with authorities, though Kremlin dismissed these reports as unverified. Defense groups like Hensoldt and Diehl are reassessing their safety protocols. Earlier this year, two individuals were arrested for plotting sabotage, heightening Germany's alert status.