On January 28, 2025, NATO officials confirmed reports of a Russian plot to assassinate Armin Papperger, the CEO of German defense company Rheinmetall. This statement was made by James Appathurai, NATO's Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Innovation, Hybrid and Cyber Technologies, during a speech at the European Parliament.
Appathurai detailed that the alleged campaign included various acts of sabotage such as train derailments, arson, and attacks on politicians’ properties. He emphasized that the assassination plot against Papperger was among a series of planned attacks on defense industry leaders in Europe who support Ukraine, a claim previously reported by CNN.
Appathurai noted that the West has historically succeeded in deterring Russia from conducting such operations by establishing “red lines” at the highest levels. He stated, “They can be deterred if you define your red lines and communicate them effectively.”
He further remarked that NATO does not consider the current level of hybrid threats as acceptable, describing it as record-high. Allies recognize the need to be more decisive in addressing repeated incidents in the Baltic Sea region. Appathurai suggested that NATO should take action without waiting for lengthy investigations, which can last six to seven months.
He highlighted the economic implications of damage to underwater infrastructure, stating, “Economic activities worth $10 trillion pass through these underwater cables, with $4 trillion crossing the Atlantic.” He warned that cutting these cables would result in significant economic harm.
NATO has initiated a monitoring mission in the Baltic Sea amid suspicions of sabotage targeting underwater cables, which have seen increased incidents in recent months. There are concerns regarding a “shadow fleet” involved in these acts, often consisting of outdated vessels operated by opaque owners transporting Russian oil and petroleum products under sanctions following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.