“Ukraine Is Already Stronger Than Taurus”: Merz Explains Why Berlin Holds Back Missiles

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has indicated that he currently sees no practical need to supply Ukraine with Taurus cruise missiles, citing the country’s growing domestic military capabilities.

Responding to questions from Bundestag members, Merz recalled that he had previously supported the idea of transferring Taurus missiles — at a time when he believed the Bundeswehr had sufficient operational stock to share.

However, according to the chancellor, the situation has since changed. Ukraine now possesses its own long-range weapons, which he described as “significantly more effective” than the relatively limited number of Taurus missiles Germany could provide.

Merz also emphasized that Ukraine is now “better armed than ever before.” At the same time, he pointed to serious financial challenges facing the country.

“And therefore, we will not solve the problem with additional weapons at this stage,” he said.

Merz’s position on Taurus has evolved over time. In November 2024, while still a candidate for chancellor, he suggested issuing an ultimatum to Russia to cease hostilities within 24 hours, warning that failure to comply could result in Germany supplying Taurus missiles and allowing strikes on Russian territory.

In December, he stressed that such a decision would require consultations with the United States. Throughout 2025, the issue remained open, with Merz noting that training Ukrainian forces to operate the missiles would take approximately six months.

Despite earlier signals, Berlin now appears to be taking a more cautious approach, shifting focus from additional weapons deliveries to broader forms of support for Ukraine.