The management of the largest European depository Euroclear, which owns frozen Russian assets amounting to 183 billion euros, has strengthened security measures following information about possible threats to top executives. Fear of Russian agents has compelled the company to take radical measures to protect its top managers and their families.
According to the publication Le Monde, the CEO of Euroclear, Valery Urbane, along with seven members of the executive committee, have been under protection for several months. For this purpose, the company hired the French security firm Amarante, specializing in the security of business leaders.
Threat from Russia: why security is heightened?
The decision to hire security guards was a response to the growing threat from Russian intelligence services. Earlier, there was information about a plot to target the head of the German defense company Rheinmetall, Armin Pappergar. This raised concerns among European business leaders who support sanctions against Russia and the freezing of its assets.
James Apaturai, NATO’s Deputy Secretary General for Innovation and Cyberspace, confirmed the risk of sabotage operations by Moscow in January 2025. He noted that although Pappergar is currently under enhanced protection, other executives involved in the sanctions policy against Russia could also become targets.
Safety of Euroclear employees: company’s official position
Euroclear representatives officially confirmed that they are taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of their employees and offices. “These measures are constantly reviewed,” a company representative stated, but refused to provide detailed information for security reasons.
Russian agents and potential assassination in Brussels
Euroclear’s concerns grew after an incident that occurred in December 2024. During the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Brussels, an unidentified drone was observed near the Euroclear headquarters. It flew in close proximity to the Belgian intelligence service, raising suspicions of possible espionage or sabotage preparations.
Conclusion: Is there a real threat?
The increased security measures for Euroclear’s executives demonstrate the seriousness of the situation. In the context of war and sanctions pressure from Russia, there is likely an attempt to exert pressure on key European structures. Therefore, the security of the company’s top management, responsible for managing billions of frozen Russian assets, remains a priority for the EU.
Russian threats have materialized in the form of attacks on critical infrastructure, espionage, and even attempts on the lives of influential individuals. Considering these factors, companies like Euroclear are forced to resort to unprecedented protective measures to avoid potential sabotage.
