German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has reiterated his country’s reluctance to send cruise missiles to Ukraine at present, stating that it is not their top priority. However, he has not categorically ruled out supplying the weapons in the future.
Ukraine has requested Germany to deliver Taurus cruise missiles for striking Russian military targets far behind the frontlines. The concern lies in the potential for the missiles to be used to attack Russian territory as well.
Germany currently holds about 600 cruise missiles in stockpiles. Pistorius highlighted that the United States has also declined to supply cruise missiles. Both Britain and France have already delivered Storm Shadow and SCALP long-range missiles to Ukraine, respectively.
Pistorius emphasized Germany’s leading role in supplying air defence, training support, engineering, and armoured vehicles to Ukraine, considering them as their core competence. However, he has left the door open to reconsidering the decision on Taurus missiles in the future. The parties within Germany’s governing coalition remain divided on whether to supply the cruise missiles.
(With inputs from DPA)
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