Germany Pledges Support to Ukraine for Long-Range Missile Production

Chancellor Merz's commitment includes a memorandum of understanding that could enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities amid ongoing Russian aggressions.

Germany's newly appointed Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has pledged to assist Ukraine in the production of long-range missiles, aiming to bolster its defenses against ongoing Russian threats. During a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Berlin, Merz emphasized Berlin's commitment to this initiative but refrained from disclosing specific details regarding the potential supply of Taurus missiles.

Merz, who took office earlier this month, stressed that Germany is eager to increase its support for Ukraine. He noted that constraints on weapon ranges supplied by Western allies would no longer be in effect, which opens the door for enhanced military capabilities for Ukraine. The Taurus missile system, with a striking range of 500 kilometers, would enable Ukraine to target deeper into Russian territory.

A formal “memorandum of understanding” regarding the production of these long-range missiles is expected to be finalized by the defense ministers of both nations later today. This move raises concerns from the Kremlin, which warned that altering missile range policies could complicate efforts toward a political resolution. Merz, however, reiterated that the decision to lift range restrictions had been made by Western nations months prior.

In light of ongoing conflict, President Zelensky has called for a settlement discussion that could involve prominent leaders, suggesting a hypothetical meeting format: "Trump-Putin-me", while remaining open to other configurations. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noted that any talks would only occur following substantial agreements between the conflicting parties.

The backdrop to these diplomatic efforts is fraught with tension as Ukraine and Russia conducted their first direct talks in over three years, resulting only in an agreement for a prisoner exchange. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov hinted that more talks may soon be scheduled, aligning with Moscow's aim to have Ukraine maintain a neutral and non-nuclear status.

Despite emerging discussions, the conflict continues to escalate. Ukrainian military reports indicate an unprecedented drone assault on Russian targets recently launched, coinciding with intensified Russian offensives, especially in the northeast, where troop concentrations are reportedly exceeding 50,000.

As the war reaches a grim fourth year, casualties soar, with vast regions of Ukraine in devastation and a fifth of its territory under Russian control, including the annexed Crimea. President Zelensky has accused Moscow of intentionally stalling the peace process, with a promised memorandum from talks in Istanbul yet to be delivered. Peskov contended that the document is nearing completion amidst ongoing hostilities.