Rheinmetall intends to continue cooperation with Ukraine despite Russia's threats

The company’s head, Armin Papperger, told Bild.

Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Maria Zakharova said that the Rheinmetall tank plant in Ukraine would become a "legitimate target" for Russian army strikes.

"We will not abandon our assistance to Ukraine," Papperger said.

According to him, Ukraine has "effective options to defend against attacks on sensitive targets".

Ukraine plans to produce ammunition, armoured vehicles, and Panther battle tanks. The plant can eventually produce up to 400 main battle tanks per year.

In addition, the company will repair Fuchs armoured vehicles.

The investment is estimated at around €200 million.

• In March, it was reported that Rheinmetall may build a tank plant in Ukraine.
• In May, the company said that this plant would produce German tanks and infantry fighting vehicles.
• On July 10, it was announced that Rheinmetall would open a plant in Ukraine within 12 weeks.