Plan Zero, a clandestine initiative, was conceived during the Cold War period by Darth Baras, a member of the Dark Council. Although Darth Vengean issued the original order, Baras shouldered the responsibility of its execution, dedicating a decade to its covert development. This sophisticated scheme was designed to eradicate the Republic Military's high command, initiating an assault that would reignite full-scale conflict with the Galactic Republic.
Consequently, Baras refrained from deploying his complete influence in the power struggles within the Sith Empire. His focus shifted from directly confronting prominent Republic figures to targeting the influential individuals operating behind the scenes. This strategy led the Sith Lord to abduct SIS operatives in the Outer Rim and to utilize intermediaries to entice avaricious Senators.
Extensive funds were allocated to gather intelligence on the Republic's most accomplished and elusive generals. The meticulous construction of this operation dictated that neither any Sith could disrupt Plan Zero, nor any Republic spy could uncover it, lest they alert the designated targets.
During the Cold War, Darth Baras tasked his Sith apprentice with the assassination of each of the Republic's key leaders. The expectation was that, once open warfare commenced, Plan Zero's accomplishments would guarantee victory.