# Russian assassination plot against German drone CEO

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/russian-assassination-plot-against-german-drone-ceo
> Updated: 2026-08-18T19:01:30.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

German security agencies and international police intercepted a Russian intelligence plot to assassinate Stefan Thumann, the CEO of drone manufacturer Donaustahl. The operation reportedly began with surveillance of Thumann’s residence and company headquarters in late 2025.

In March 2026, German and Spanish authorities arrested two suspects, identified as a Ukrainian national and a Romanian national, after they were observed filming Thumann’s property. While the arrests prevented the attack, Thumann has since revealed he is living in hiding under 24-hour protection. 

Reports indicate the plot may have involved the use of a “neurotoxic agent.” Thumann, whose company provides reconnaissance and attack drones for Ukraine, described the situation as a “fight for his life,” noting that he must constantly change locations to ensure his safety.

## Claims

- Stefan Thuman is living in hiding and under 24-hour protection due to assassination threats. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- German authorities warned Thuman about a Russian intelligence plot in late 2025. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Two individuals described as ‘disposable agents’ were arrested in March for spying on Thuman. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The assassination plot allegedly involved the planned use of a neurotoxic agent. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Donaustahl manufactures attack and reconnaissance drones and military drone software. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The company supplies unmanned aerial vehicles to Ukraine. (corroborated by 3 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-18: Donaustahl CEO lives in hiding due to alleged Russian assassination plot

German drone manufacturer Donaustahl CEO Stefan Thuman is living in hiding following an alleged Russian intelligence assassination plot involving potential neurotoxins.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/donaustahl-ceo-lives-in-hiding-due-to-alleged-russian-assassination-plot

### 2026-08-05: German Drone CEO Stefan Thumann Targeted by Russian Intelligence Plot

Russian intelligence plotted to kill German drone maker CEO Stefan Thumann; German and Spanish police arrested Ukrainian Sergey N. and Romanian Alla S. in March 2026 after surveillance of his home.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/german-intelligence-thwarts-russian-plot-to-assassinate-drone-maker-ceo

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Cite as: Russian assassination plot against German drone CEO. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/russian-assassination-plot-against-german-drone-ceo