European intelligence officials warn of threats to defense executives

European intelligence officials have warned that Russian operatives are targeting executives at defense companies, including drone manufacturers, in alleged plots intended to weaken support for Ukraine. The assessment was relayed by officials from five European intelligence agencies, whose accounts underpin the reporting; the sources provided no underlying evidence to independently establish the alleged plots or Russian direction. The warnings cover senior figures at major arms manufacturers as well as smaller firms producing drones and components. Intelligence officials said the suspected campaign seeks to make executives reconsider doing business with Ukraine by increasing fear of becoming a target. One official characterized the intended effect as psychological, suggesting intimidation could serve that purpose even without an attack. In Germany, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, or BfV, has increased contact with defense-industry employees and management. A BfV official said the agency had advised some to consider hiring private close-protection teams.