Media: Britain supports Germany's potential Taurus missile delivery to Ukraine

Britain has signalled support for Germany’s decision to send Taurus missiles to Ukraine, a move that would be a boost to incoming German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Merz, who is set to take office in May, recently indicated his readiness to send the long-range missile system to Kyiv, but only in coordination with France and Britain.

A British official, speaking to British media, confirmed that the UK has long backed the idea of Germany supplying the Taurus missiles and would support the decision if it is made by Merz. “We continue to work with our partners, including Germany, to equip Ukraine as best we can to defend its sovereign territory,” the official stated.

Taurus is a powerful cruise missile system capable of striking deep into Russian territory, making it a potentially game-changing asset for Ukraine. Germany’s outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz had previously resisted sending the missiles, fearing it could escalate tensions with Moscow, particularly if Ukraine used them to target key Russian sites like the Kremlin or the Kerch bridge in Crimea.

Merz, however, believes that Germany should join its European allies in providing long-range missile support. “Our European partners are already supplying cruise missiles... if it’s agreed, then Germany should take part,” he said earlier this week.

Despite Merz’s stance, the issue remains contentious within his coalition, with the Social Democrats (SPD) still divided on the matter. Roderich Kiesewetter, a senior member of Merz’s Christian Democrats (CDU), emphasized that the SPD’s hesitation could delay the delivery, even though UK backing could help push Germany towards a final decision.

The SPD’s opposition to the Taurus system has sparked tension, with some members arguing that it could lead to further escalation. However, CDU officials like Kiesewetter argue that delaying the delivery of such a powerful weapon system has only emboldened Russia and weakened European security.

“The refusal to send the Taurus system has weakened European security and led to more victims in Ukraine,” Kiesewetter said, urging Merz to proceed with the delivery without delay.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson added that the UK and its partners, including Germany, remain committed to providing Ukraine with the military support it needs to defend against Russia’s illegal invasion. Last week, the Defence Secretary and his German counterpart co-chaired a meeting where over £18 billion in military aid was pledged.

By Tamilla Hasanova