Germany's secret missile support: Taurus talks with Ukraine
If Germany delivers Taurus missiles to Ukraine, it will do so unofficially, according to Johannes Wadephul, a key figure in German diplomacy. The subject of weapon delivery was discussed during Volodymyr Zelensky's recent visit to Berlin.
What do you need to know?
- Germany is considering delivering Taurus missiles to Ukraine, but the decision might be made unofficially, meaning it could remain unknown for an extended period.
- Chancellor Friedrich Merz is in discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but details regarding the missile transfer remain confidential.
- The German political scene is divided over military support for Ukraine, complicating government decisions.
What are the behind-the-scenes factors influencing the decision to deliver Taurus missiles?
If Germany decides to deliver Taurus missiles to Ukraine, it will likely be done unofficially. - If Ukrainians receive this weapon from Germany, it will most likely be unofficially. It may take quite some time before it becomes known, says Łukasz Jasiński, an analyst on Germany at the Polish Institute of International Affairs, in an interview with Radio Zet. Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who recently assumed office, must balance the desire to support Ukraine with his coalition partners' opposition.
- During the previous government, when the SPD (Social Democratic Party of Germany) was the largest ruling party, and Olaf Scholz was chancellor, the Taurus missiles became a symbol of the cautious policy of supporting Ukraine. For social democrats, sending missiles to Ukraine that could strike targets within the territory of the Russian Federation is still challenging to accept, - Jasiński points out.
Why is the decision to deliver weapons so complicated?
During a meeting with Zelensky, Merz announced €5 billion ($7.2 billion CAD) in new military aid for Ukraine, but details regarding the Taurus missiles remain undisclosed. - Merz acknowledged that he discussed the Taurus missiles with Zelensky, but he stressed that he would not disclose the details of the meeting, informs Jasiński. The decision to deliver weapons is difficult due to coalition partners' reluctance and the need to train Ukrainian soldiers on handling technologically advanced weapons.
- Therefore, Chancellor Merz's options are somewhat limited. He will explore various ways to circumvent the coalition partners' opposition, - he emphasizes.
What are the reactions to a possible delivery of missiles?
Russian military analyst Igor Korotchenko warns that the use of Taurus missiles by Ukraine could be perceived as Germany entering a war with Russia. - If it is confirmed that Ukraine struck with Taurus cruise missiles targeting deep within Russian territory, we would classify it as Germany entering into war with Russia, Korotchenko stated. The German debate on military support for Ukraine is complex, as society is still grappling with historical burdens.
What are Germany's further plans regarding Ukraine?
During the meeting in Berlin, memorandums of understanding were signed concerning the cooperation between the defence industries of Germany and Ukraine. - This agreement envisions closer and long-term cooperation between the defence industries of both countries, predicts Jasiński. This cooperation may include assembling Taurus missiles in Ukraine or creating similar rockets based on them.
