What's happened
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz maintains his refusal to send Taurus long-range cruise missiles to Ukraine, despite the US approving a $61 billion military aid package for Ukraine. Scholz, after meeting with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, calls for continued European support for Ukraine.
Why it matters
Germany's stance on providing military aid to Ukraine, particularly the decision not to send Taurus missiles, showcases the country's commitment to supporting Ukraine through alternative means. The refusal highlights the complexities of European defense strategies and the importance of solidarity in the face of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that German Chancellor Olaf Scholz remains firm in his decision not to send Taurus missiles to Ukraine, emphasizing the need for responsible use of such weapons. Politico notes that Scholz's stance comes after the US approved a significant military aid package for Ukraine, prompting calls for increased European support.
How we got here
Germany has been a key player in providing military assistance to Ukraine in response to Russia's invasion. Chancellor Scholz's refusal to send Taurus missiles is based on concerns about responsible use and the involvement of German soldiers in the conflict. The US approval of a substantial aid package has put pressure on European allies to enhance their support for Ukraine.
More on these topics
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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Germany, officially the Federal Republic of Germany, is a country in Central and Western Europe. Covering an area of 357,022 square kilometres, it lies between the Baltic and North seas to the north, and the Alps to the south.
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Olaf Scholz is a German politician serving as Federal Minister of Finance and Vice Chancellor under Chancellor Angela Merkel since 14 March 2018.
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Berlin is the capital and largest city of Germany by both area and population. Its 3,769,495 inhabitants make it the most populous city proper of the European Union. The city is one of Germany's 16 federal states.
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in