German Chancellor Friedrich Merz again admitted the possibility of providing Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine. In an interview with ZDF television, he emphasized that although such a step is within the realm of possibility, its effect in the short term would be limited due to the need for lengthy preparation, Focus reports.
“Of course, this is within the realm of possibility“, commented Merz, but added that long-range missiles require several months of training for Ukrainian servicemen. "Handing over the system in six months or a year will not benefit Ukraine today," he said.
However, the Chancellor assured that Germany would step up its military support for Ukraine right now.
On the topic of sanctions against Russia, Merz said that "everything that can be done on a secure legal basis is possible."
According to the German press, Berlin plans to continue financing the Ukrainian production of long-range drones. In addition, the government confirmed that within a few weeks the Ukrainian army will receive the first weapons systems produced with German assistance.