Moscow Identifies German Arms Factory in Ukraine as a Potential Military Target
This week, the German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall, based in Dusseldorf, has announced the completion of its delivery of twenty more 20 Marder 1A3 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) to Ukraine. However, the company's relationship with Kiev extends beyond this, as it is one of the first major European arms companies to open a factory in Ukraine. This move has sparked outrage among Kremlin officials, who have now warned that the Rheinmetall plant could be a potential target for military action.
Kremlin's Response to Rheinmetall's Actions
Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin Spokesman, has stated in a briefing that "A plant of Rheinmetall, a German arms manufacturer, launched in Ukraine, is a legitimate military target for the Russian Armed Forces." He emphasized that the factory, now established within Ukraine, is indeed a potential target.
Rheinmetall plans to not only produce armored vehicles but also maintain and repair them from within the war-torn country. The company is even looking to develop a local gunpowder and munitions plan. TASS reports that Rheinmetall is the largest defense contractor in Germany, a NATO member, and significantly profits from the Ukrainian conflict. The company's turnover increased by 12% to 7.1 billion euros in 2023, with net income growing by 9% to 0.6 billion euros.
Rheinmetall's Future Plans and Response to Threats
Rheinmetall has indicated its intention to open no less than four military production installations within Ukraine, with the ammunition side expected to commence within the next two years. Despite the threats from Peskov, the company downplayed the situation, stating that the "production of weapons in Ukraine is well protected and this is not the first time they have heard threats from the Kremlin." The company plans to continue its operations regardless of these threats.
One of Russia's primary reasons for the February 2022 invasion was to 'demilitarize' Ukraine, accusing NATO of building up its military infrastructure within the country that shares a large border with Russia. However, it now seems that the Western military alliance is indeed rushing to do so.
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, stated earlier this week that "Things are progressing. The first plant is already ready. The second one is on the way. And now I insist on speeding up all of this work, because we don't have much time, we shouldn't waste it." Papperger further added, "We are fully committed to supporting Ukraine’s defense industry, ensuring that essential equipment can be produced and maintained within the country."
Reactions and Future Implications
Pro-Russian commentators have highlighted that this development makes a peaceful settlement increasingly unlikely. This past summer, US intelligence officials claimed, which was later denied by Russia, that Russia planned to assassinate the chief executive of Rheinmetall, which has been producing artillery shells and military vehicles for Ukraine.
Ukrainian officials and media have praised the robust support from the German arms giant. They have expressed enthusiasm about the factory development in the country, stating, "One down, three to go." It remains uncertain what NATO would do if its factories are actually targeted, as this could potentially lead Brussels to invoke Article 5.
Bottom Line
The escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, intensified by the involvement of foreign arms manufacturers like Rheinmetall, raise serious questions about the future stability of the region. The potential for military targets within Ukraine could significantly impact the geopolitical landscape. What are your thoughts on this development? Feel free to share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
