Tensions mount between the U.S. and Germany as they prepare for a clash over tank supplies to Ukraine
The United States has sent heavy M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, marking a significant reinforcement of Ukraine’s armored capabilities, while Germany has yet to make a decision on sending Leopard 2 tanks or lifting its veto on their transfer [4].
In a recent development, United States Protection Secretary Lloyd Austin met with Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius in Germany. During the meeting, Pistorius confirmed sending Patriot air defense systems and ammunition to Ukraine but did not confirm Leopard 2 tank deliveries [3].
Germany is preparing to buy around 1,000 main battle tanks and 2,500 armored fighting vehicles for its own military to counter possible future Russian aggression; however, this procurement is still in planning stages and not finalized [1]. The German government's position on Leopard 2 tanks remains cautious and undecided as of the latest reports in July 2025 [1][2][3].
Meanwhile, Ukraine has been relying primarily on Soviet-era T-72 tanks. The provision of new tanks, such as the Leopard 2 or the Abrams, would give Ukraine's troops mobile firepower, crucial for repelling Russian attacks and recapturing occupied land [5]. Ukraine has requested heavy tanks from the West, with Kyiv claiming that the provision of heavy tanks is crucial for its defense efforts [6].
The provision of heavy tanks requires solving a stand-off between Washington and Berlin, with Germany currently blocking allies from sending its Leopard 2 tanks. Washington and several Western allies claim the Leopards are the only appropriate option available in large enough numbers [7]. However, Germany has not yet decided to send Leopard 2 tanks or to lift its veto on their transfer to Ukraine or to allies [2].
On the sidelines of the World Economic Forum, a live event titled "The Course to Triumph: A Conversation with Ukraine's Top Diplomat" is being held. This event is being hosted by Ukraine's House in Davos [8]. The meeting at the United States' Ramstein Air Base, convened by Austin and Pistorius, is expected to provide billions of dollars worth of military aid, including armored vehicles and air defenses [6].
In his inauguration speech, Pistorius vowed to support Ukraine, but provided no specifics [6]. Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian governmental administration, has urged for a quick decision on the provision of heavy tanks for Ukraine [9].
While the fighting has been concentrated in the south and east of Ukraine, the provision of heavy tanks could tip the balance in Ukraine's favor. However, as of now, the US has sent heavy tanks to Ukraine, but Germany has not yet committed to sending Leopard 2 tanks. Instead, Germany is focusing on increasing its own tank production and supporting Ukraine via other military aid and industrial cooperation.
References:
- BBC News
- Reuters
- Politico
- CNN
- Al Jazeera
- AP News
- The Guardian
- World Economic Forum
- CBS News
Policy discussions on the provision of heavy tank systems, such as the Leopard 2, have become a contentious issue in the politics of war-and-conflicts, particularly between the United States and Germany. The German government's policy-and-legislation on sending Leopard 2 tanks or lifting its veto on their transfer to Ukraine remains undecided, with strong implications for the general news regarding ongoing tensions in Ukraine.
