In a bold and potentially controversial statement, Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s opposition Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has offered support for helping Ukraine develop its own long-range missile capabilities to target Russian military assets. The proposal comes amid growing frustration in Kyiv over Berlin’s reluctance to send its Taurus cruise missiles directly to the war-torn country.
Merz’s remarks, made during a recent public appearance, signal a significant shift in the German political debate surrounding military assistance to Ukraine, and suggest that parts of the German establishment are now considering more strategic and long-term partnerships with Kyiv—well beyond the provision of traditional defense aid.
“If the German government is unwilling to provide Ukraine with Taurus missiles, we should at least help Ukraine develop its own systems to defend itself effectively and deter Russian aggression,” Merz stated.
His comments reflect growing pressure on Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government, which has so far resisted calls to send the highly sophisticated Taurus missile system to Ukraine, citing concerns over escalation and direct involvement in the conflict. The Taurus missiles, capable of striking targets more than 500 kilometers away with pinpoint accuracy, have been requested by Ukrainian officials to neutralize high-value Russian positions behind the front lines, including supply depots and command centers.
Merz’s offer introduces an alternative: supporting Ukraine’s domestic missile development program through technological cooperation, training, or joint production initiatives—without directly transferring German weapon systems. This could allow Germany to contribute meaningfully to Ukraine’s long-term defense capacity while avoiding immediate escalation.
Analysts warn, however, that such support could still provoke strong reactions from Moscow. Russia has previously issued threats against Western nations assisting Ukraine in acquiring long-range strike capabilities. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov quickly condemned Merz’s proposal, calling it “an openly hostile act that would escalate tensions in Europe.”
Despite the diplomatic risks, Merz’s position has found support among German conservatives and some members of the defense community, who argue that Ukraine must be empowered to take the fight to Russian forces, especially as the conflict grinds on with no clear resolution in sight.
Ukrainian officials have welcomed the statement, with Defense Minister Rustem Umerov praising the possibility of deeper technological cooperation with NATO partners. “Ukraine’s ability to defend itself depends on both current supplies and long-term strategic partnerships,” he said.
The proposal also highlights a growing rift within Germany’s political landscape over how to handle military support for Ukraine. While Scholz’s government remains cautious, opposition leaders are pushing for a more assertive stance that includes high-impact weaponry and strategic collaboration.
As the war in Ukraine continues into its third year, pressure is mounting on Western allies to shift from short-term aid to sustainable defense cooperation. Merz’s offer may be an early indicator of what such cooperation could look like in the years ahead.
Swifteradio.com
