Russia Warns Germany Over Taurus Missile Supplies

Why in the News ?

Russia has warned that if Germany supplies Taurus long-range missiles to Ukraine, it would consider it direct participation in the conflict. The statement follows German political debates about supporting Kyiv with advanced weapons amid ongoing war escalation concerns.

Russia Warns Germany Over Taurus Missile Supplies

Highlights of the Russia’s Warning to Germany:

  • Russia has cautioned that Ukrainian strikes using German-supplied Taurus missiles on its transport infrastructure would be seen as Germany’s direct involvement in the conflict.
  • Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova reiterated that any attack using Taurus missiles on critical facilities would cross a red line for Moscow.
  • The Kremlin had earlier warned that missile supplies from Germany risk further escalating the over three-year-long Russia-Ukraine war.

Germany’s Political Debate on Taurus Missiles

  • Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz had opposed sending Taurus missiles to Ukraine.
  • Friedrich Merz, the likely next chancellor, recently signaled openness to missile supply, provided European allies agree.
  • Defence Minister Boris Pistorius expressed caution, noting there are both strong arguments for and against the transfer.
  • SPD members, including Matthias Miersch, oppose the move, warning against turning Germany into a warring party.

Taurus Missile: Capabilities and Global significance

●      Taurus missiles are advanced long-range weapons capable of striking targets up to 500 km away.

●      Western nations like the U.S. and U.K. have already supplied Ukraine with long-range missiles, raising tensions with Russia.

●      Britain has expressed support for Germany if it decides to provide Taurus missiles to Kyiv.