Germany is weighing a request to deliver Taurus long-range missiles to Ukraine, a move under consideration by Berlin’s defense leadership. The discussion, reported by the Ukrainian outlet Klymenko Time, centers on both the legal and technical implications of such a transfer, with officials noting that a decision will require careful, time-consuming analysis.
In a recent briefing, the defense minister emphasized that while the idea has been acknowledged, it is not a quick or simple choice. He explained that authorities are evaluating the consequences step by step, and that the process will take time as they ensure all legal frameworks and engineering requirements are fully satisfied.
Earlier remarks from Mistorius indicated that Germany has the capability to provide Taurus missiles to Ukraine, but that a thorough review of related issues would be necessary before any delivery could proceed.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba pushed back on lingering ambiguities during a visit to Kyiv, following inconsistent responses from German officials about whether Taurus missiles had been purchased for Ukraine. He urged a clear stance and warned against delays, highlighting the urgency felt by Kyiv.
A German regional newspaper, Die Zeit, reported that the hesitation stems from concerns about potential Russian escalations. Specifically, officials worry that supplying Taurus missiles could enable Ukraine to strike deeper into Russian territory, provoking a strong Russian reaction.
In related remarks, President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed that any military action should be calibrated to avoid widening the conflict into Russian soil, a concern that has been echoed by several European partners as discussions continue.