Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger refuses to back down despite Russian threat claims
Rheinmetall chief Armin Papperger says he will not abandon his duties even though he faces alleged Russian plots against his life and constant police protection.
Armin Papperger, the chief executive of Rheinmetall, declared that abandoning his responsibilities is unacceptable despite ongoing safety concerns. He referenced a fire set to his garden shed and demonstrations outside his residence as clear signs of intimidation. German authorities have placed him under continuous police protection, assigning bodyguards at all times, even within the company’s Düsseldorf office.
The security measures mirror those provided to Chancellor Friedrich Merz, highlighting the seriousness of the alleged Russian murder plots. Papperger emphasized that the defence sector demands resilience under pressure, and that a less risky job would entail a lower threat level. He affirmed that the state is doing everything possible to safeguard him, while he remains committed to his role.
Why it matters
The story shows how geopolitical tensions can translate into personal security risks for leaders of major defence firms.
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