Overview

• Friedrich Merz, poised to become Germany's next chancellor, has indicated readiness to supply Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine in coordination with European allies.
• Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz and key figures in the SPD remain opposed, citing fears of Germany being drawn directly into the conflict.
• Russia has explicitly warned that any use of Taurus missiles by Ukraine against Russian targets would be considered German participation in the war.
• The Taurus KEPD-350, with a 500 km range and advanced targeting capabilities, could enable Ukraine to strike deep into Russian territory, including critical infrastructure.
• France and the UK have already provided Ukraine with long-range missiles, while Germany debates its role as NATO's second-largest arms supplier.