German FM Supports Long-Range Missiles for Ukraine Despite Scholz's Opposition

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has voiced her support for providing Ukraine with long-range missiles for self-defense, despite opposition from Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

Speaking on ARD TV, as cited by DW, Baerbock highlighted the importance of long-range missiles, stating that they are "especially crucial for overcoming the mine belts in eastern Ukraine."

When asked about Germany potentially supplying other types of weapons to Kyiv, Baerbock reiterated her position, but noted that Scholz holds a different view.

"In a democratic coalition, if partners cannot reach an agreement on a particular issue, we cannot proceed [with supplying long-range weapons to Ukraine]. In such cases, the Americans, British, and French step in," Baerbock explained.

Baerbock argued that this support is particularly crucial given the possibility of former US President Donald Trump returning to the White House after the upcoming elections. The only thing one could count on with Trump, she remarked, is that "the events of the following day were completely unpredictable."

She also reaffirmed her commitment to continuing Germany’s military aid to Ukraine.

Germany has refused to deliver Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, even after the UK, France, and the US provided their own long-range weapons. Most recently, on September 21, Scholz once again rejected calls to supply Taurus missiles to Ukraine.

Ukraine is seeking permission to deploy long-range missiles to target Russian air bases and military infrastructure responsible for attacks on Ukrainian civilians and energy facilities.