Russia's attempt to assassinate a German weapons CEO for sending arms to Ukraine was thwarted by U.S. intelligence officials, according to reports.
The failed plot to kill Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger was one of several efforts by Russia to murder European defense industry executives who are sending guns, ammo and military tanks in support of Ukraine, five U.S. and western officials with intel on the situation told CNN in a report published Thursday.
When the U.S. learned of Russia's plans, they tipped off Germany, and German security forces were able to safeguard Papperger and derail the assassination attempt.
Rheinmetall is the largest manufacturer of particular artillery shells Ukraine has used against Russia, and the company plans to open a military vehicle plant in Ukraine, making Papperger a clear target, officials said, according to CNN.
Russia has reportedly spent the past six months conspiring against European nations that have aided Ukraine in its weapons defense.
"We're seeing sabotage, we're seeing assassination plots, we're seeing arson. We're seeing things that have a cost in human lives," a senior NATO official said Tuesday, according to the network. "I believe very much that we're seeing a campaign of covert sabotage activities from Russia that have strategic consequences."
National Security Council Spokesperson Adrienne Watson would not confirm the assassination attempt on Papperger, but told CNN, "Russia's intensifying campaign of subversion is something that we are taking extremely seriously and have been intently focused on over the past few months."
"The United States has been discussing this issue with our NATO Allies, and we are actively working together to expose and disrupt these activities. We have also been clear that Russia's actions will not deter Allies from continuing to support Ukraine," said Watson.
