The UK government has specifically urged Germany to supply long-range “Taurus” missiles to the government in Kyiv, as London expressed its anger over statements by German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, regarding British activity in Ukraine.
British ministers and senior officials have repeatedly made it clear to Germany that Ukraine desperately needs “Taurus” missiles, according to informed sources, as reported by Bloomberg News today, Friday.
The UK has proposed solutions to Berlin’s opposition to sending them, including a swap deal that would see Britain supply Kyiv with more of its “Storm Shadow” missiles, after which Germany would replenish the UK with alternative long-range missiles.
A British official, who requested anonymity due to the confidentiality of discussions between the two countries, stated that Germany needs to stop making excuses.
Scholz has reiterated his clear rejection of supplying “Taurus” missiles to Ukraine at this time, justifying this by avoiding the risk of Germany’s involvement in the war.
In early October, Scholz decided not to supply Taurus missiles to Ukraine for fear that these missiles, which have a range of 500 kilometers, could hit Russian territory.
It is noted that Germany is the second-largest military and economic supporter of Kyiv, after the United States, in its resistance to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which entered its third year last month.
The value of the weapons that Germany has already supplied to Ukraine or pledged to supply amounts to 28 billion euros.
The European Union leaders have come together to extend a significant aid package to Ukraine, amounting to 50 billion euros (approximately $54 billion). This decision was made amidst a backdrop of uncertainty surrounding U.S. support for Kyiv, especially as the conflict with Russia nears its third year. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed hope that this EU commitment would bolster U.S. President Joe Biden’s efforts to secure continued support from Congress for Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy welcomed the aid, emphasizing its role in strengthening the country’s economic and financial stability in the long term.
This 50 billion euro package is intended to support Ukraine from 2024 to 2027 and is part of the EU’s broader strategy to offer predictable financial assistance to Ukraine on its path toward EU membership, in collaboration with global partners and the private sector. The aid is a mix of free grants and low-interest loans, aiming to address not only immediate needs but also the long-term reconstruction of the nation, severely impacted by the ongoing conflict. This financial assistance comes at a crucial time as Ukraine continues to face military and infrastructure challenges due to the conflict.
