In recent years, NATO has been facing an increasing number of sabotage attacks within its member countries, and one of the most shocking incidents involves threats to assassinate Armin Papperger, the CEO of Rheinmetall, a German arms manufacturer. These threats are connected to a broader Russian campaign aimed at destabilizing the countries that support Ukraine, according to James Appathurai, NATO’s Deputy Assistant Secretary-General. On January 28, Appathurai confirmed what had previously been reported only in the media, shedding light on the severity of the situation.
Assassination Plot Against Rheinmetall’s CEO
One of the most troubling developments in this ongoing sabotage campaign involves a plot to assassinate Armin Papperger. The German businessman has become a significant target due to his company’s role in providing weapons to Ukraine, particularly as Russia continues its invasion. The assassination plot was uncovered by U.S. and German intelligence in July 2024. This plot, which was linked to Russian operatives, aimed at targeting Papperger because of Rheinmetall’s involvement in Ukraine’s defense efforts.
After the discovery of the plot, German authorities took immediate action. Papperger, who had previously been receiving basic security, was given top-level protection, on par with that of Germany’s Chancellor, Olaf Scholz. The threats to Papperger are part of a larger pattern of Russian attempts to intimidate and destabilize figures and organizations that support Ukraine in its war against Russia.
The Rise in Hybrid Attacks from Russia
James Appathurai spoke at the European Parliament, where he discussed how the sabotage efforts against NATO countries had increased since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. He explained that Russia was using a variety of hybrid operations, which are tactics designed to destabilize countries without direct military conflict. These attacks often involve cyber operations, disinformation campaigns, and, as in the case of Papperger, threats of violence.
In addition to the assassination plot, Appathurai highlighted several other forms of sabotage that had been reported. These include train derailments, arson attacks, and threats against politicians and industry leaders. One example he pointed to was the burning down of Papperger’s garden house in April 2024, which was claimed by supporters of the left-wing extremist RAF movement. These attackers accused Papperger of profiting from arms sales to Ukraine.
According to Appathurai, NATO has seen these hybrid attacks escalate in intensity, describing the current level of sabotage as a “record high.” He emphasized that NATO allies were now more aware of the need for robust responses to these incidents, especially in regions like the Baltic Sea, where the risk of sabotage is higher. NATO’s recognition of these ongoing threats has led to the development of new strategies to deal with such activities, with a summit scheduled in The Hague later this year to focus on these issues.
Russia’s Campaign Against NATO Supporters
The sabotage and threats against Papperger are not isolated cases; they are part of a larger effort by Russia to target people and organizations that support Ukraine, especially those providing military aid. Rheinmetall, for example, has been crucial in supplying weapons and equipment to Ukraine. This includes Leopard 1 tanks, mortar shells, and surveillance drones. The company’s involvement in Ukraine’s defense has made it a key target for Russian forces.
In addition to providing arms, Rheinmetall has also made significant contributions to Ukraine’s long-term military capabilities. In late July 2024, the company received an order from the Ukrainian government to start building an ammunition factory in Ukraine. Rheinmetall has also announced plans to open at least four factories within the country. These actions have further angered Russian operatives, who see such efforts as a direct challenge to their goals.
The sabotage campaign against Rheinmetall and other supporters of Ukraine has not only involved direct threats but also attacks designed to cause fear and disrupt the support efforts. These actions, as Appathurai pointed out, are part of Russia’s broader strategy to weaken the resolve of NATO countries and their allies.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is clear that the Russian government is willing to use any means necessary to achieve its objectives, including targeting individuals and organizations involved in supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts. For NATO, these increasing acts of sabotage represent a serious challenge, and they are working on plans to better defend against such hybrid threats.
