Putin's Plot to Assassinate German Arms Manufacturer CEO Reveals Russia's Aggressive Hybrid Warfare

Former US ambassador to NATO warns that Putin will not stop if he takes Ukraine, as intelligence officials reveal Russia's plot to assassinate the head of a major German arms manufacturer as part of a wider campaign of sabotage against Ukraine's allies and support across Europe.

The U.S. and Germany have successfully thwarted a Russian plot to assassinate the head of a major German arms manufacturer, revealing Russia's escalating hybrid warfare campaign against Ukraine's allies and supporters in Europe.

Intelligence officials have uncovered a series of plots to assassinate defense industry executives across Europe, aiming to cripple Ukraine's support network. The assassination attempt on Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger is the latest in this series of plots.

Putin's Plot to Assassinate German Arms Manufacturer CEO Reveals Russia's Aggressive Hybrid Warfare

Rheinmetall has emerged as a key supplier of weapons and tanks to Ukraine, including Leopard 1 tanks and Marder infantry fighting vehicles. The company's role in supporting Ukraine has made it a target for Russian sabotage.

U.S. intelligence uncovered the plot to kill Papperger and informed German counterparts, who then notified Rheinmetall. German intelligence acted swiftly to prevent the plot from advancing.

Putin's Plot to Assassinate German Arms Manufacturer CEO Reveals Russia's Aggressive Hybrid Warfare

Expert Rebekah Koffler explains that the assassination attempt on Papperger fits into Russia's "wet deeds" doctrine, a policy of targeted assassinations conducted by intelligence services to eliminate "enemies of the state."

A senior NATO official warns that Russia is engaging in a campaign of sabotage activities with strategic consequences, including assassination plots and arson. These activities aim to disrupt Ukraine's support network and weaken European resolve.

Putin's Plot to Assassinate German Arms Manufacturer CEO Reveals Russia's Aggressive Hybrid Warfare

"Russia is waging a hybrid war of aggression," says German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. "We have seen attacks on people and factories, underlining the need for Europe to protect itself."

Rheinmetall spokesperson confirms that necessary measures are taken in conjunction with security authorities to safeguard personnel.

Putin's Plot to Assassinate German Arms Manufacturer CEO Reveals Russia's Aggressive Hybrid Warfare

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's absence from the NATO summit highlights the ongoing divisions within the alliance over how to respond to Russia's aggression.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis urges NATO to act decisively to stop Putin's aggression and protect Ukraine's sovereignty.