"Permission Granted to Strike Beyond Borders for National Defense"
Acknowledgment of Lifting Range Restrictions
Emphasis on Right to Self-Defense Within International Law... Citing 'Legal Basis'
Germany Follows U.S. in Removing Restrictions... Moscow Issues 'Warning'
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the decision to lift range restrictions on German weapons supplied to the Ukrainian military was made several months ago. His remarks come amid growing controversy over whether Germany has effectively condoned or approved Ukraine's intensified attacks on Russian territory in recent days.
According to foreign media reports on May 26 (local time), Chancellor Merz said, "Several months ago, we decided to allow Ukraine to attack Russian supply routes and other targets beyond its own territory in order to defend itself." This statement is being interpreted as Germany permitting Ukraine to use German-made weapons to strike military facilities near the Russian border.
He stressed, "It is legitimate for Ukraine to respond within the limits permitted by international law," and added, "Germany made this decision with great caution in accordance with legal standards, and we continue to maintain this careful approach."
Previously, Germany had expressed concerns about the possibility of attacks on Russian territory with its weapons support, including the Taurus long-range cruise missile. However, there is now a growing trend among Western allies to allow Ukraine to strike Russian rear supply lines and energy infrastructure.
Chancellor Merz added, "Ukraine's right to self-defense must be respected, and Germany is maintaining a consistent position in close coordination with its allies." These remarks are being interpreted as an indication that, following the United States' recent partial approval for Ukraine to use HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) to strike near the Russian border, Germany has also effectively lifted its range restrictions.
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