Friedrich Merz, the leader of the CDU/CSU and a candidate for the post of German chancellor, proposed more decisive steps in support of Ukraine in its standoff with Russia. In his statement, Merz emphasized the readiness to transfer long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine if Russia does not stop its bombing. According to the politician, this could be an important step in response to Moscow's actions.
"I would say to Putin: if the bombing does not stop, the first step would be to lift the range restrictions. And the second step would be to deliver the Tauruses. And then Putin himself will decide how far he wants to escalate this conflict.", Merz said.
He also added that Germany should not delay making such decisions and should clearly state its position regarding further support for Ukraine.
Merz criticized current Chancellor Olaf Scholz, accusing his government of lacking a strategic vision for the conflict in Ukraine. He said Scholz and his allies were too vocal about their plans and positions in public, which Merz said was giving Russia the opportunity to better prepare for Western action. He stressed that Germany should instead demonstrate a more confident and purposeful approach.
Plans for a possible transfer of Taurus missiles are generating intense discussions in German political circles and among NATO allies. Taurus missiles are capable of striking targets at a range of up to 500 kilometers, making them a powerful tool in the Ukrainian military's arsenal for striking Russian military targets deep in its territory.