Overview

• Friedrich Merz, the likely next German Chancellor, has reiterated his support for delivering Taurus missiles to Ukraine, emphasizing coordination with European partners already supplying advanced weapons.
• Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz remains opposed, citing fears of escalating the conflict and concerns over Germany's potential perception as a direct participant in the war.
• Technical assessments suggest the Taurus missile has sufficient range to target critical Russian infrastructure, but practical challenges, including risks from Russian air defenses, make such operations unlikely.
• Russia has sharply criticized the proposal, with Dmitri Medwedew issuing personal attacks on Merz and accusing Germany of provoking further conflict.
• The debate highlights deep divisions within German politics, with some leaders advocating diplomacy over public discussions of military aid, while others push for stronger support for Ukraine.