German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on Monday that Western allies are no longer imposing any range restrictions on long-range weapons supplied to Ukraine for use against Russian military targets. During a discussion forum organized by public broadcaster WDR, Merz clarified that these lifted restrictions apply not only to German weapons but also to those from the UK, France, and the U.S.
Merz emphasized that Ukraine can now "defend itself by attacking military facilities in Russia," a capability that was previously restricted. He noted that while Ukraine is using its weapons to target Russian military infrastructure, Russia continues to launch attacks on Ukrainian civilian targets, including cities, kindergartens, hospitals, and care homes. "Russia attacks civilian targets completely ruthlessly; bombing cities, kindergartens, hospitals, and old people's homes—Ukraine doesn't do that," he stated.
The Chancellor's remarks come as he revealed the motivations behind his recent visit to Kyiv alongside the leaders of France, the UK, and Poland on May 10. During the visit, Merz indicated that all future discussions regarding arms supplies to Ukraine would be kept confidential.
Historically, Ukraine has received long-range missiles from the U.S., UK, and France, but was restricted to using them against Russian military forces only in occupied territories. Merz, prior to taking office, signaled his intention to reverse his predecessor Olaf Scholz's ban on delivering Germany's Taurus cruise missiles, which can strike targets at a range of 500 kilometers.
In his address, Merz stated, "Nobody can now reproach us for not having exhausted all the diplomatic means available to us." He further explained that lifting restrictions on the use of long-range weapons will make "the decisive difference in Ukraine's warfare," asserting that a country must be able to defend itself beyond its own borders.
As the conflict continues, the implications of these policy changes for Ukraine's defense capabilities and the broader geopolitical landscape remain significant.
