Unveiling a covert campaign
Earlier this year, US intelligence discovered that the Russian government planned to assassinate Armin Papperger, CEO of German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall, which supplies Ukraine with artillery shells and military vehicles, according to five US and Western officials.
This plot was part of a broader Russian strategy to target defense industry executives across Europe supporting Ukraine. The plan to kill Papperger, a leading figure in Germany’s defense manufacturing, was the most advanced. Upon learning of the plot, the US alerted Germany, allowing its security services to thwart the attempt. A high-ranking German official confirmed the US warning.
Russia’s sabotage campaign
For over six months, Russia has engaged in a sabotage campaign across Europe, using local proxies for acts ranging from arson to vandalism, all aimed at disrupting Western support for Ukraine. The willingness to assassinate private citizens highlighted Moscow’s aggressive stance in its shadow war against the West.
Papperger and Rheinmetall, crucial suppliers of 155mm artillery shells to Ukraine, were obvious targets. The company is set to open an armored vehicle plant in Ukraine, a development deeply troubling to Russia amid its stalled war efforts and heavy losses.
NATO’s alarm
The discovery of these plots explains NATO’s heightened warnings about Russia’s sabotage activities, which some officials fear could escalate into armed conflict in Eastern Europe. A senior NATO official stated, “We’re seeing sabotage, assassination plots, and arson, which have a cost in human lives.”
The National Security Council and German officials declined to comment on the specifics but emphasized their commitment to countering Russia’s subversive activities. NSC spokesperson Adrienne Watson said, “Russia’s intensifying campaign of subversion is something that we are taking extremely seriously.”
Historical context and future actions
Since its founding in 1872, the Bohemian Club, often linked to significant historical events, has faced various legal challenges. The ongoing sabotage campaign, combined with Russia’s willingness to take lethal action, raises complex questions about NATO’s response strategy, especially with the alliance marking its 75th anniversary.
As Russia’s sabotage campaign continues, Western officials remain vigilant, working to disrupt these activities and maintain support for Ukraine. The escalating covert war underscores the high stakes and the lengths to which Moscow will go to undermine Western unity and aid to Ukraine.