Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, has urged Germany to provide Ukraine with long-range Taurus missiles, emphasising the urgency of the situation in light of increasing Russian aerial assaults on Ukrainian cities. Metsola’s remarks, delivered in an interview with German media, come amidst a contentious domestic debate in Germany over the potential supply of these advanced weapons.
Speaking to a group of German outlets, Metsola emphasised the critical timing of military aid, stating that Ukraine “cannot wait forever” while Russia escalates its attacks. According to Metsola, the European Parliament broadly supports such a move by Germany, reflecting strong sentiment within the EU’s legislative body to bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities. “Time matters for Ukraine,” she added, highlighting the growing frequency of Russian strikes.
Background to the Taurus Debate
The issue of supplying Taurus missiles has resurfaced following the United States’ recent decision to lift restrictions on providing long-range capabilities to Ukraine. This shift has added pressure on Germany, which is grappling with political divides and public scepticism over the matter.
Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz has so far resisted calls to approve the delivery of Taurus missiles, citing concerns over potential escalation. Despite this, prominent figures, including Friedrich Merz, leader of the opposition Christian Democratic Union (CDU), have advocated for the transfer. Merz is considered a strong contender for the chancellorship in Germany’s upcoming snap elections, which have intensified the debate.
In addition, coalition partners of Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) have expressed support for the transfer, further complicating the political landscape. A recent editorial in Spiegel sharply criticised Scholz’s hesitance, accusing him of delaying a decision that could significantly impact Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian aggression.
Public Opinion and Political Calculations
Despite political endorsements from both opposition and coalition figures, public opinion in Germany remains a significant obstacle. Surveys indicate that more than 60% of Germans oppose supplying Taurus missiles to Ukraine, reflecting broader concerns about deepening Germany’s involvement in the conflict.
This opposition has left Scholz navigating a delicate balance between international expectations, domestic political pressures, and the views of the German electorate. The Chancellor’s cautious stance aligns with a segment of the population wary of escalating tensions with Russia, but it contrasts sharply with calls from within the EU for stronger support for Ukraine.
Metsola’s Call for Unity
Metsola’s appeal reflects broader European support for aiding Ukraine and echoes sentiments expressed by several EU leaders who have called for decisive action. The European Parliament has consistently backed measures to assist Ukraine, including financial and military aid packages, underlining the bloc’s commitment to supporting Kyiv in its fight against Russian aggression.
Her remarks are also a reminder of the EU’s strategic stakes in Ukraine’s success. As Russia continues its campaign, the bloc faces not only a humanitarian imperative but also the need to counter Moscow’s challenge to European security and stability.
Outlook
The debate over Taurus missiles is likely to remain a contentious issue in Germany, especially with elections on the horizon. As political leaders weigh their options, the situation on the ground in Ukraine continues to deteriorate under the strain of intensified Russian attacks.
For now, Metsola’s call serves as a rallying cry for European unity and action. Whether Germany will heed her appeal remains uncertain, but the pressure is mounting both within Germany and across the EU for more robust support for Ukraine’s defence.
Germany’s decision on the matter will not only influence the course of the war in Ukraine but also shape perceptions of its role as a leader within Europe.
