Scholz firm on not supplying Taurus missiles to Ukraine amidst debate

Ukrainians have repeatedly highlighted that without long-range weapons, effectively opposing Russian aggression is a challenge. Although they are receiving missiles with similar characteristics from the United Kingdom and France, German politicians have been divided on this issue for months. Nonetheless, the majority are against Taurus cruise missiles being sent to Ukraine. Olaf Scholz, aligning with this majority, has now made his stance very clear.

The Chancellor of Germany reiterated a previous stance that the Ukrainian armed forces would not be able to use Taurus cruise missiles without the assistance of German soldiers. Additionally, they aim to prevent unjustified strikes on targets within Russian territory. According to him, the presence of German soldiers in Ukraine is unacceptable for the German government, as it could result in Germany becoming involved in the war.

"This is a red line I do not want to cross as Chancellor. Being cautious should not be seen as a sign of weakness," he said.

Taurus cruise missiles are of considerable size, measuring 5 metres in length and weighing up to 1,400 kilograms. They are equipped with a MEPHISTO (Multi-Effect Penetrator, Highly Sophisticated and Target Optimised) warhead, which weighs about 500 kilograms and possesses extremely high destructive power.

Its design allows it to be detonated either as a conventional fragmentation bomb or with a delay, depending on the target and the attackers' needs. This feature makes it particularly effective against underground enemy positions, such as bunkers. Notably, Taurus cruise missiles are constructed using stealth technology and can reach targets over 500 kilometres away.

A representative from the defence committee of the German Bundestag, Alexander Müller, mentioned that the committee was briefed on the reasons behind Olaf Scholz's decision to maintain his stance.

"There are one or two matters that cannot be publicly disclosed, which justifiably make him [Olaf Scholz] cautious," Müller stated.

Earlier this month, the British government proposed a deal to Germany whereby Berlin would transfer its missiles to Great Britain, which, in turn, could then supply Ukraine with more of its own cruise missiles. Some German politicians are also opposed to this proposal.

Currently, the Ukrainian military has Storm Shadow cruise missiles (from the United Kingdom) and SCALP-EG, provided by France, in its inventory. These have been used to hit significant targets, including those of strategic importance, such as the attack on the Chonhar Bridge.