Why it matters:
A shift in Berlin’s defense policy could lead to the deployment of advanced Western weaponry to the Ukrainian battlefield, raising the stakes of the ongoing conflict and altering the trajectory of Europe’s role in the war.
What he's saying:
Friedrich Merz, the leader of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), announced in an interview with ARD that he supports the delivery of Taurus long-range missiles to Ukraine. He reiterated his long-standing position that Ukraine needs strategic weapons to regain the initiative against Russia, while also noting that any such move should come after consultation with European allies.
Key points:
- Germany's political transition may lead to a change in military policy regarding Ukraine.
- Friedrich Merz supports the deployment of long-range missiles as a way to empower Ukraine’s military strategy.
- The proposed missile transfer would require coordination with Germany's European partners.
- Russia’s airstrikes on Ukraine continue to draw condemnation from Western political figures.
- The European Union is discussing expanded involvement in Ukraine, including military advisory missions.
- Hungary is distancing itself from any military presence within Ukraine, insisting on external coordination only.
Go deeper:
The evolving positions within EU member states highlight deep divisions over how far Europe should go in supporting Ukraine militarily. As future leaders such as Merz push for a more assertive approach, others like Hungary remain cautious, wary of escalation and long-term consequences. The debate reflects a broader European dilemma between military engagement and strategic restraint in a conflict with global implications.
ahmad shirzadian
