US and Germany Decide to Jointly Support Ukraine with 'Main Battle Tanks'

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Haeyoung] The United States and Germany, which had been reluctant to provide main battle tanks to Ukraine, have reportedly decided to send tanks in tandem. This move is seen as a response to Ukraine's desperate appeals for support and criticism that the hesitant attitudes of the US and Germany are causing divisions within the West.

According to major foreign media on the 24th (local time), German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has decided to provide Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine and allow the re-export of German-made Leopards by other countries that possess them to support Ukraine.

Germany had previously hesitated to support Ukraine with tanks, fearing escalation, and was also reluctant to allow other European countries possessing German-made Leopards to send tanks. However, as Ukraine continued to appeal daily for tank support, voices grew louder urging Chancellor Scholz to make a decision, warning that Germany's passive stance was causing rifts within NATO member countries.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The German government has not yet issued a separate statement on this matter but is expected to announce an official position soon.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said at a joint press conference with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Berlin on the morning of the same day, "We are preparing our decision and it will be announced soon." This suggested that a decision regarding tank support is imminent.

He emphasized that they have "clearly" encouraged partner countries possessing Leopard tanks to begin training Ukrainian forces in tank operations if necessary. Pistorius also stated that Germany is closely monitoring the situation regarding Leopard tanks and is "preparing to be in a position to act swiftly if the situation arises."

The United States is also reportedly considering providing M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that an official announcement could be made within this week. Initially, the US Department of Defense was negative about providing M1 Abrams tanks due to the complexity of their operation and maintenance, but it appears they have shifted direction toward supporting M1 Abrams to encourage Germany to provide Leopard 2 tanks. Previously, the German government told Ukraine, which requested Leopard 2 support, "If the US sends M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, we will do the same."

The flood of reports on the same day that the US and Germany will jointly provide main battle tanks to Ukraine is interpreted as the result of the two countries making a final decision.

If Western countries supply their main battle tanks?the German Leopard 2 and the American M1 Abrams?it is expected that the mobility and firepower of the Ukrainian forces, which had been hindered by lack of support, will be significantly enhanced.