German defense minister voices skepticism about delivery of Taurus missiles to Ukraine

BERLIN

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius on Monday expressed skepticism about Chancellor-designate Friedrich Merz’s support for supplying Ukraine with long-range Taurus missiles.

“I can clearly say that there are good arguments for the delivery and use of Taurus, and there are many good arguments against it,” Pistorius said at a Social Democratic Party event when asked about Merz’s recent remarks in favor of the delivery.

“And part of these good arguments against the delivery is something that you don't discuss publicly. You're not allowed to discuss it publicly because it's confidential and because it’s about security.”

On Sunday, conservative leader Merz advocated sending Taurus missiles to Ukraine in an interview with broadcaster ARD.

He argued that the advanced weapons systems would allow Kyiv to disrupt Russian military supply lines, particularly those linked to Crimea. He also said Western military support would enhance Ukraine's deterrence capabilities and strengthen its position in peace negotiations with Moscow.

Russia rebuked the statement, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov telling journalists in Moscow that European countries were “further provoking the continuation of the war.”

Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz, a Social Democrat, has strongly opposed sending Taurus missiles to Ukraine, warning that such action could draw Germany more directly into the conflict with Russia.

Taurus missiles, with a range of more than 500 kilometers (310 miles), are known for their precision in striking fortified targets such as bridges and deeply buried command bunkers.

Merz's conservative party won February’s parliamentary elections and last week reached a coalition agreement with the Social Democrats.

Merz will assume the chancellorship after the parties' governing bodies ratify the deal and parliament holds its confirmation vote in early May.

Under the new coalition, the Social Democrats will retain the Defense Ministry, with Pistorius expected to continue as defense minister.