EU Officials Back Taurus Missiles for Ukraine Despite Kremlin Threats

Several European foreign ministers have expressed support for a proposal by Friedrich Merz, chairman of the Christian Democratic Union and incoming German chancellor, to provide Germany’s long-range Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine.

The issue was discussed during a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg on April 14, according to DW. Officials highlighted the urgency of strengthening Ukraine’s defensive capabilities amid ongoing Russian attacks.

“I have always said that I would do this (agree to supply Ukraine with TAURUS missiles - Ed), but only with the consent of European partners,” Friedrich Merz said.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas underscored the importance of bolstering Ukraine’s ability to defend its civilian population. “Further action is crucial to ensure the safety of the Ukrainian populace,” Kallas said.

Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski echoed her remarks, calling the supply of additional military support essential.

Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp described the proposed missile transfer as “a significant message,” adding that peace cannot be achieved through negotiations alone while Russia continues its assaults.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys emphasized the urgency of supplying Ukraine with all necessary weapons, including ballistic missiles.

Merz reiterated his position during a recent television appearance. He stated that, if elected, he would authorize the delivery of Taurus missiles to help Ukraine shift from a purely defensive posture to a more offensive strategy.

Merz argued that Berlin must align its military assistance with that of key allies, including the United States, France, and the United Kingdom, who have already provided long-range weapons.

The Kremlin responded on April 14, warning that any delivery of Taurus missiles to Ukraine would be seen as a provocation.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, “Judging by the statements of Mr. Merz, he is a supporter of a tougher position and a supporter of various steps that are capable of and will inevitably lead only to a further escalation of the situation around Ukraine,” he said Dmitry Peskov.

“We see similar positions in other European capitals. Unfortunately, indeed, European capitals are not inclined to seek any paths to peace negotiations, but rather are inclined to further provoke a continuation of the war,” he added.

Peskov added that Moscow sees similar positions emerging across other European capitals and accused them of provoking a prolonged war rather than seeking diplomatic solutions.

Merz’s position contrasts sharply with that of outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who consistently rejected calls to supply Taurus missiles during his tenure, citing concerns over drawing Germany more directly into the war.

Previously, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy invited Trump to visit Ukraine to observe the impact of Russia’s invasion firsthand, suggesting that such a visit would provide necessary context for any future diplomatic proposals.

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