Russia warns of escalation if Germany supplies Ukraine with Taurus missiles

Russia has warned of the risk of an escalation in the conflict in Ukraine if Germany decides to supply Kyiv with Taurus missiles, after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed openness to the idea if the European Union approves it.

Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said during a regular briefing that Merz supports various measures that will likely or inevitably lead to a further escalation of the situation in Ukraine.

Peskov denounced Merz’s support for the escalation of the conflict, a position also seen in other European capitals.

He said, “Its truly unfortunate that European capitals are not seeking ways to reach peace talks, but rather are leaning towards pushing for the continuation of the war”.

Friedrich Merz, whose conservative party won Germany’s snap legislative elections in late February, has expressed a firm determination to continue military support for Ukraine.

While outgoing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz refused to supply Kyiv with Taurus missiles capable of targeting deep inside Russia, fearing an escalation of the conflict, Merz reiterated his openness to the idea on Sunday, albeit with conditions.

In response to a question on this matter on Sunday evening, he said, “I’ve always said that I will only do this in agreement with our European partners”.

He added, “Coordination must take place, and if that happens, Germany will participate”.

Germany is the second-largest military supplier after the United States to Ukraine in the war with Russia since February 2022.

Merz made his remarks hours after a double Russian attack on the Ukrainian city of Sumy, one of the most violent since the outbreak of the war.