Delivery of Taurus goods remains a possibility according to Merz's statements.
In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, the delivery of Taurus guided missiles to Ukraine has been a topic of much discussion. As of mid-2025, Germany, a key ally of Ukraine, has not delivered Taurus missiles but has kept the option open, with ongoing debates and cautious positioning around this issue.
Early to mid-2025 saw Germany officially rule out sending Taurus missiles to Ukraine despite repeated requests from Kyiv to strike deep inside Russian territory. The decision was primarily due to concerns over escalation and the potential geopolitical and security risks for Berlin. Russia, notably President Vladimir Putin, has warned that supplying Taurus missiles with a range up to 500 km could make Germany a direct party to the war.
However, on July 1, 2025, Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicated that the delivery of Taurus missiles "remains a possibility," signaling potential openness to reconsidering the ban imposed by his predecessor.
In the meantime, Germany has been providing other forms of military aid to Ukraine. In June 2025, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed no plans to send Taurus cruise missiles but announced the delivery of IRIS-T air defense systems to Ukraine under a three-year supply plan as part of continued military support. Germany is also prioritizing the delivery of advanced air defense systems, funds for vehicle repairs, and support for satellite communications to strengthen Ukraine’s defense without crossing certain escalation red lines.
The strategic impact of Taurus missiles would allow Ukraine to conduct precision strikes deep inside Russian-held territory, potentially shifting the conflict dynamics. Their absence limits Ukraine’s long-range strike capabilities. However, Germany’s cautious approach reflects a balancing act between supporting Ukraine robustly and managing the risk of broader conflict escalation with Russia.
As the situation remains fluid, there are indications that Germany's policy could evolve. Chancellor Merz’s recent remarks suggest Germany might reconsider Taurus missile deliveries, possibly in response to evolving battlefield needs or allied pressure.
In summary, while Germany remains a major supporter of Ukraine’s defense, it has stopped short of providing Taurus guided missiles due to geopolitical risks and the desire to avoid increasing direct conflict involvement. However, the situation remains fluid with indications that this policy could evolve.
Germany's policy regarding the delivery of Taurus missiles to Ukraine, initially ruled out due to concerns over escalation and geopolitical risks, remains a possibility, as indicated by Chancellor Friedrich Merz on July 1, 2025. Yet, Germany's strategic approach towards military aid to Ukraine focuses on providing advanced air defense systems, funds for vehicle repairs, and support for satellite communications, avoiding the provision of Taurus missiles to maintain a delicate balance between supporting Ukraine and managing the risk of broader conflict escalation with Russia.
