Germany’s new chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has announced a strong commitment to assist Ukraine in producing long-range missiles to defend itself against Russian attacks. This comes as a significant escalation in Western military support for Kyiv.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Berlin with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Merz confirmed that Berlin and Kyiv would soon sign a memorandum of understanding on missile production cooperation, although details remain confidential.
The missiles in question are widely believed to be Taurus missiles, which have a range of up to 500 kilometers (310 miles). Such capability would allow Ukraine to strike deeper into Russian territory, marking a shift from previous limitations on Western arms deliveries.
Shift in German Policy
Merz, who took office earlier this month, has signaled a more assertive approach to supporting Ukraine than his predecessor Olaf Scholz. He emphasized that Western allies had already agreed months ago to remove restrictions on weapon ranges provided to Kyiv.
“We want to talk about production and we will not publicly discuss details,” Merz said. He also warned Russia that Moscow’s refusal to engage in meaningful peace talks would have “real consequences.”
Ongoing Conflict and Peace Talks
Diplomatic efforts continue amid intense fighting, particularly along the Sumy front in northeastern Ukraine, where Russian forces have seized several villages in a bid to establish so-called “security buffer zones.”
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced readiness for a second round of peace talks in Istanbul, scheduled for 2 June, and promised to present Russia’s peace terms. However, Ukraine insists that future meetings must yield concrete results.
President Zelensky has urged the US and its allies to impose sanctions targeting Russia’s banking and energy sectors, following a deadly missile strike that killed civilians, including children. Read more about the Ukraine conflict and sanctions.
Wider Context
The war, now entering its fourth year, has caused tens of thousands of deaths and devastated large parts of eastern and southern Ukraine. Russia currently controls about one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, annexed in 2014.
Germany’s increased military support and the removal of range restrictions on weapons highlight the West’s ongoing commitment to helping Ukraine resist Russian aggression while continuing to seek a diplomatic solution.
Stay tuned for further updates on the Ukraine conflict and international diplomatic efforts.
Read more about: Germany’s defense policy updates | Ukraine war latest news | International peace talks on Ukraine
