German Chancellor refuses to deliver Taurus missiles to Ukraine, vows continued support


(MENAFN) German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has reaffirmed his position against providing Taurus missiles to Ukraine, though he emphasized Germany's ongoing substantial military support for the country. Speaking at a news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv on December 2, Scholz outlined further military assistance that Germany would deliver to Ukraine. He confirmed that by December, Germany would send the sixth Iris-T SLM system, additional Patriot launchers, and more Gepard anti-aircraft tanks. Scholz also promised continued deliveries of air defense systems, howitzers, reconnaissance drones, artillery, and six armed search-and-rescue helicopters in 2025.

Scholz sent a strong message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating, "We have long endurance, and we will stand by Ukraine for as long as it takes," underlining Germany's commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. He highlighted that Germany's contributions go beyond just air defense systems, which have been the focus of much discussion. Germany has also supplied Ukraine with powerful and dangerous weapons, including artillery systems, multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), various types of tanks, and more.

To date, Germany has provided significant military assistance, including five Iris-T systems, three Patriot systems, and more than 50 Gepard anti-aircraft tanks. Scholz pointed out that Germany had equipped six brigades, stressing the scale of the aid being provided. He also emphasized that Germany had committed to a total of 28 billion euros in weapons and military support for Ukraine.

The German Chancellor’s remarks underscore his government's firm stance on supporting Ukraine's defense while maintaining a measured approach to the types of weaponry being provided. Despite refusing to send the Taurus missiles, Germany’s continued military support plays a key role in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

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