Diehl Defence has secured a €2.2 billion contract to supply Ukraine with four additional IRIS-T surface-to-air missile systems, complete with command centers, launchers, and radars. These systems, capable of engaging threats up to 100 kilometers away at Mach 3, will significantly bolster Ukraine’s air defenses. This latest contract builds upon previous agreements, increasing Ukraine’s IRIS-T inventory to 23 by 2026. The deal underscores Germany’s continued commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression and reflects a broader strategy of long-term military cooperation.
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During a meeting, President Trump suggested allowing Ukraine and Russia to continue fighting before intervening, an analogy he shared with President Putin. While German Chancellor Merz affirmed shared concern over the war and acknowledged Trump’s potential role in stopping it, he reiterated Germany’s support for Ukraine. Their discussions also covered trade, particularly Trump’s desire to reduce the U.S. trade deficit with Germany and potentially increase German defense spending. The meeting aimed to foster a stronger relationship between Trump and Merz, contrasting with Trump’s previous strained relationship with Merkel. Further points of contention included German domestic politics and ongoing trade disputes.
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Following Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s visit to Berlin, Germany announced a €5 billion aid package for Ukraine, including funding for domestic long-range missile production. This collaboration will see the first deliveries of these weapons within weeks and represents a “new form of military-industrial cooperation.” The package also includes additional air defense systems, munitions, and support for battlefield maintenance and communications infrastructure. Despite Germany’s continued reticence regarding the supply of its own Taurus missiles, the country remains a major military supporter of Ukraine.
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Ongoing discussions between Ukraine and Germany regarding the delivery of Taurus missiles are currently underway, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy confirmed work is progressing on this front, although specifics remain confidential per an agreement with Chancellor Merz. Merz has previously expressed openness to supplying the missiles, while the German government maintains a policy of limited public disclosure on weapons deliveries. Pressure for the missile transfer continues to mount within Germany’s ruling coalition.
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Pressure is mounting on German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to deliver Taurus long-range missiles to Ukraine, following his announcement lifting range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine. Prominent CDU/CSU members, including Kiesewetter and Röwekamp, advocate for both missile delivery and training Ukrainian personnel to use them, arguing this would significantly aid Ukraine’s defense. However, critics like Hofreiter and Düring claim Merz’s statement is insufficient without concrete action, accusing him of inaction and criticizing the SPD’s hesitancy. The debate highlights a significant rift within the German government regarding further military aid to Ukraine.
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Germany, alongside its major allies, has lifted all range restrictions on weapons provided to Ukraine, enabling Kyiv to strike military targets deep within Russia. This policy shift allows Ukraine to utilize long-range weaponry for defensive purposes, a capability previously unavailable. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov deemed this action dangerous and detrimental to peace efforts. While the specifics of supplied weapons are now undisclosed by the German government, the decision marks a significant escalation in military support for Ukraine.
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Germany, alongside the US, UK, and France, has lifted range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine, enabling strikes on Russian military targets. This decision, described as “dangerous” by the Kremlin, allows Ukraine greater defensive capabilities. While Chancellor Merz avoids confirming Taurus missile deliveries, his government’s actions suggest a shift towards more robust support for Ukraine. Despite exploring diplomatic avenues, including a potential Vatican-mediated peace process, Merz indicates that options are dwindling, implying a prolonged conflict.
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In a WDR interview, Chancellor Merz expressed his confusion regarding the Israeli army’s objectives in Gaza, citing the unacceptable level of civilian casualties. He emphasized the need for restraint in publicly criticizing Israel due to Germany’s history, but asserted that violations of international humanitarian law necessitate German intervention. While reaffirming Germany’s commitment to being Israel’s most important European partner, Merz warned that Israel must not exceed acceptable limits in its actions.
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Chancellor Merz announced the lifting of range restrictions on Western weapons supplied to Ukraine, enabling attacks on Russian military targets. This decision, confirmed across multiple Western nations, signifies intensified support for Ukraine’s self-defense capabilities. While Merz didn’t explicitly confirm Taurus missile provision, the statement indicates a significant escalation in military aid. He remains pessimistic about a swift end to the conflict, though he expressed hope for future peace negotiations. Germany’s commitment to actively supporting peace efforts remains strong.
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During a Vilnius visit establishing a new German brigade, Chancellor Merz underscored NATO’s unwavering commitment to the collective defense of its territory. He emphasized the alliance’s preparedness to respond to any challenge, stressing the gravity of the situation and the responsibilities of its members. The deployment of the brigade serves as a clear demonstration of this commitment. Merz’s statement reinforced a message of strong deterrence and resolute defense against any aggression.
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John Q. Hosedrinker