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German general assesses potential impact of Taurus missiles on Ukraine's frontline

German general assesses potential impact of Taurus missiles on Ukraine's frontline The German general responded to whether the transfer of Taurus to Ukraine could impact combat operations (Photo: mbda-deutschland.de)
Author: Daria Shekina

German Major General Christian Freuding, who heads the special staff on Ukraine at the Ministry of Defense of the Federal Republic of Germany, assessed in an interview with rnd whether Taurus missiles could tilt the combat operations in favor of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

The Major General was asked whether the transfer of Taurus to Ukraine could impact combat operations.

"Ukrainians are already using long-range weapons from other states. However, no weapons system is a panacea or a decisive moment," emphasized Freuding.

According to him, what matters more is how the military leadership utilizes the weapons at its disposal. This ensures military success, not a "symbolic wonder-weapon."

"Much more important is the long-term structured development of the potential of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, which we are currently embarking on. Here, Germany takes a leading role in one of the main potentials," he added.

Taurus for Ukraine

The Ukrainian authorities have been requesting Germany to commence the supply of long-range Taurus missiles since last year, capable of destroying targets up to 500 kilometers away.

However, the transfer of such weaponry has not started. According to media reports, the Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Olaf Scholz, is against the supply. He is concerned that Ukraine might use the missiles to strike Russian territory.

At the same time, Germany continues to provide military assistance to Ukraine. In 2024 alone, nearly 8 billion euros have been earmarked for this purpose.