German politicians have expressed shock and outrage over reports of an alleged plot by Russia to murder the chief executive of German arms company Rheinmetall, Armin Papperger. The plot was reportedly uncovered by US intelligence agencies, who alerted German authorities about the planned assassination.

It is believed that the Russian government targeted Papperger due to his open criticism of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. As a result, the CEO was provided with special protection earlier this year to ensure his safety.

The news of the alleged plot sparked strong reactions from German politicians. Marcus Faber, the chairman of the German parliament's Defense Committee, condemned Russia's actions, stating, "It shows once again that Russia is also bringing its war and terror to Europe. The Putin regime is now also seeking the lives of German citizens."

Michael Roth, chairman of the Bundestag's Foreign Affairs Committee, echoed Faber's sentiments, accusing Russian President Vladimir Putin of waging a war of annihilation against Ukraine and its supporters.

Serap Güler, a defense policy expert from the conservative opposition Christian Democrats, called for increased support for Ukraine in response to the alleged plot.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz declined to comment on the reported plot during a press conference at the NATO summit in Washington, while Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock highlighted Russia's hybrid warfare tactics without explicitly referring to the plot.

The Kremlin dismissed the reports, citing the reliance on anonymous sources and lack of "serious documentation" as reasons not to take them seriously.

According to CNN, the foiled attempt against Papperger was part of a series of plots targeting leaders of weapons-making businesses in Europe that supply Ukraine. Rheinmetall, one of the largest European suppliers of armor technology and artillery shells for Ukraine, has been a key provider of weaponry to the country.

Rheinmetall recently opened a repair facility for armored personnel carriers in Ukraine and has plans to produce new tanks, further solidifying its commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense capabilities.

As investigations continue into the alleged plot, German politicians are calling for action and increased support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression and potential threats to German citizens.

Overall, the reported plot has intensified concerns about Russia's activities in Europe, raising questions about the security of key figures and companies engaged in the defense sector. The alleged assassination plan serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine and the wider implications for European stability.