Overview

• Friedrich Merz, Germany's incoming chancellor, has expressed willingness to supply Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine in coordination with European allies.
• Russia has warned that any German-enabled strikes using Taurus missiles would be considered direct participation in the war, with severe consequences for Germany.
• The Taurus missile's 500 km range and advanced capabilities, including low-altitude flight and bunker-penetrating warheads, make it a strategically significant but controversial weapon.
• Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz and the SPD have opposed missile deliveries, citing fears of escalating the conflict and drawing Germany into direct involvement.
• France and the UK have already supplied Ukraine with long-range missiles, and Germany's potential contribution reflects broader European coordination efforts to support Ukraine's defense.