Despite Pressure, Berlin Maintains Its Stance on Military Support, Emphasizing European Aid to Ukraine

Germany has reaffirmed its decision not to provide long-range missiles to Ukraine, despite mounting pressure from Kyiv and its allies. In the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, stated that Berlin would continue supporting Ukraine, but reiterated that long-range missile systems would not be part of the assistance package.

Germany’s position comes as part of its broader strategy to avoid further escalation of the conflict, with both military and diplomatic implications. At the same time, Scholz emphasized the importance of European support for Ukraine, underscoring that the continent must continue increasing aid to Kyiv.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked both the UK and Germany for their ongoing support, which includes financial and military assistance. However, the lack of long-range missiles remains a contentious issue, as Ukraine calls for more advanced weaponry to counter Russian advances.

Meanwhile, the situation on the ground remains dire, with Russian forces making significant territorial gains in eastern Ukraine. The Ukrainian foreign minister stressed that the West must step up its defense capabilities, stating that the era of peace in Europe is over. This call comes as NATO continues its military exercises in Finland, which have drawn sharp criticism from Moscow, calling them “provocative.”

Amid these developments, Ukraine carried out a drone attack on two Rosneft-owned oil depots in Russia’s Smolensk region, causing major fires. The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) claimed responsibility, stating that the strikes were aimed at disrupting Russian military logistics.

The escalation of violence on both sides suggests that the conflict is far from over, and the international community remains divided on the extent of military support to Ukraine.