Reported Russian plot to assassinate Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger

CNN reported in July 2024 that US intelligence had uncovered a Russian government plan to assassinate Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall, a major arms supplier to Ukraine, and had alerted Germany, which provided him protection. German authorities declined to comment on the specific report. No charges have been made public.

Established by. CNN, 11 Jul 2024, citing five unnamed US and Western officials. German interior ministry declined to comment directly, saying the government 'takes the threats from the Russian regime very seriously'. NATO official James Appathurai later told the European Parliament that Russia's campaign included 'threats to assassinate industry leaders, such as Rheinmetall's CEO'.

Latest. No public indictment or official German attribution as of Oct 2026.

Link to the war against Ukraine. Rheinmetall is a leading supplier of ammunition and armour to Ukraine.