Ukraine slams German arms maker over CEO's 'Lego drone' insult to Kyiv-built aircraft
Ukrainian officials have strongly rebuked Rheinmetall for its head of business Armin Papperger publicly mocking the country as "playing with Legos" regarding their own-made drones. The controversy erupted after a video clip went viral showing Mr. Papperder laughing at footage that depicted Kyiv's homegrown drone production, which he described in an interview to German media outlets on March 29th using terms like 'housewives' and toys rather than serious weaponry.
Perspectives
German defense company Rheinmetall issued a statement expressing respect for the country's efforts after facing backlash over comments that appeared to downplay Ukrainian innovation in warfare.
— (Kyiv Independent)"Every woman and every man makes an invaluable contribution": German giant Rheinmetall retracts its remarks about 'housewives' following public outcry from Ukraine officials, including Prime Minister Volodymyr Zelenskyy's adviser who drew a pointed reaction to the dismissive comments.
— (Theguardian)"Like playing with Lego": The head of German arms maker Rheinmetall sparked anger among Ukrainian defense industry figures and government advisers after making disparaging remarks about Ukraine drone production in an interview published March 27, leading officials from Kyiv to rebuke the company.
— (Politico.eu)"Every woman makes a valuable contribution": The German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall apologized for its CEO's offensive comments comparing Ukrainian factory workers producing drones as 'housewives', acknowledging that such remarks were inappropriate and damaging relations between Germany, Ukraine, and their defense industry partners.
— (Bfmtv)"Like playing with Lego": Armin Papperger was criticized by the German press for his offensive comments about Ukrainian drone makers being like housewives or children's toys in an interview published March 27 which led to a public row between Berlin and Kyiv.
— (Stuttgarter-zeitung.de)Rheinmetall issued an apology for CEO comments that dismissed Ukrainian drones by comparing them to "Legos made in kitchens," stating instead it respects the nation's efforts. In response, former defense advisor Oleksandr Kamyshin highlighted Ukraine's significant impact on Russian forces while noting Rheinmetall remains a key supplier of tanks and artillery rounds despite its earlier remarks downplaying innovation.