Western intelligence agencies have issued warnings to senior defence officials across Europe about an escalating threat from Russia to target high-ranking executives for assassination, prompting heightened security measures within the defence industry. The increased attention comes amid a stalemate on the battlefield in Ukraine and pressures on Russia’s economy, leading Moscow to broaden its campaign of sabotage and hybrid warfare operations throughout Europe.
Officials from multiple European intelligence services have indicated that killings of civilian targets—once largely off-limits—have become a more prominent component of Russia’s efforts to undermine Western support for Kyiv. Intelligence representatives from five different agencies told reporters that the Kremlin is focusing on chief executives and senior personnel within defence companies, with smaller firms also identified as potential targets.
A senior European intelligence official described the risk as growing not only to physical infrastructure but also directly to individuals. In response, Germany’s Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) has significantly expanded its engagement with employees and management of German defence firms, recommending measures such as deploying privately contracted close-protection teams. Several defence industry executives, speaking anonymously, confirmed they had enhanced their personal security arrangements in recent months based on guidance from government security bodies. Others noted such protections were typically reserved for international travel.
The overarching objective, according to intelligence sources, remains psychological: instilling fear and uncertainty within the defence sector to dissuade business collaboration with Ukraine. “The main goal from the Russian perspective is still psychological,” one intelligence official said. “Just by making people feel they might be a target, they are having their effect. They want individuals to think twice before doing business with Ukraine.”
Security consultants have also reported a rise in inquiries from defence companies seeking advice on protecting personnel in Europe. Claudine Fry, a partner at Control Risks, a London-based strategic intelligence and security firm, noted increased interest in assessing the credibility of threats against executives and implementing active risk management measures.
This development signals a marked intensification of Russia’s covert campaign in Europe, as Moscow seeks to weaken the West’s resolve through direct and indirect means amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.