German Weapons Factory in Ukraine Is a “Legitimate Target” for Russian Forces
A weapons factory in Ukraine, built by German defense firm Rheinmetall, is a "legitimate target" for Russian forces, according to Russian government spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — A weapons factory in Ukraine, built by German defense firm Rheinmetall, is a “legitimate target” for Russian forces, according to Russian government spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.
When asked if the newly opened German defense factory in Ukraine was a valid target for Russian forces, Peskov, known to be close to President Vladimir Putin, responded, “Absolutely.”
Russian news agency TASS quoted his statement.
The German defense company plans to open four weapons factories in Ukraine to produce artillery shells, gunpowder, and munitions for air defense systems.
Additionally, it intends to establish facilities in Ukraine for the repair and maintenance of armored vehicles and tanks, particularly German-made Leopard tanks.
The newest factory, which the German company inaugurated in October, aims to begin production of the “Lynx” combat vehicle.
Germany ranks among the top weapons contributors to Ukraine, second only to the United States.
Rheinmetall, which CEO Armin Papperger claims to be the world’s most profitable defense company, has already supplied Ukraine with approximately 200 Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) and various other weapon systems.
The German government has also donated air defense systems to Ukraine to help Kyiv counter Russian aerial attacks, along with artillery shells.
CEO Papperger explained that the company’s investment in building factories in Ukraine is intended to help Ukraine secure its required supply of 4 million artillery rounds to combat Russian forces.
Papperger added that this is not the first threat the company has received from Russia, as previous threats have occurred.
He mentioned that security measures have been heightened at the company’s factories and facilities in Ukraine to counter any potential threats from Russia.
Earlier this year, reports emerged that Russian agents had planned to assassinate Papperger, but the plot was foiled by American and German intelligence agencies. — DSA
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