Germany & Ukraine: Strikes in Russia – What You Need to Know
Germany authorizes Ukraine to strike inside Russia with German weapons, a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed the removal of range restrictions on German-supplied systems, a move that the Kremlin immediately condemned, claiming it undermines peace efforts. This decision marks a pivotal shift in Berlin’s support, aligning it with allies like the U.K.and France,and empowering Kyiv to target military positions within Russia. The shift follows mounting pressure and contrasts with previous hesitations. Discover how this impacts the war and explore the implications of this shift, including President zelensky’s upcoming visit to Berlin. News Directory 3 provides up-to-the-minute updates. Learn more about what the future holds for the conflict.
Germany Allows Ukraine Strikes Inside russia with German weapons
Updated May 27, 2025
Germany has authorized Ukraine to use long-range weapons supplied by Berlin to strike military targets inside Russia. This decision by Chancellor Friedrich Merz marks a important shift in Western support for Ukraine as the conflict continues.
Merz’s announcement lifts previous restrictions on the use of german-delivered missiles, aligning Germany with allies like the U.K. and France. “We will do everything in our power to continue supporting Ukraine,” Merz stated on X.
While it’s unclear if Germany will provide Taurus missiles, as Kyiv requested, Merz confirmed Ukrainian forces can now target military positions within Russia using German systems. “Ukraine can now also defend itself by attacking military positions in Russia,” Merz said.
The Kremlin quickly condemned the move. Spokesperson Dmitry peskov told state media that it was “a rather hazardous decision” and would undermine efforts to reach a political settlement.
This decision contrasts with the stance of Merz’s predecessor, Olaf Scholz, who resisted sending long-range weapons due to concerns about escalating the conflict with Russia. During a visit to Kyiv in December, Scholz maintained his refusal despite unveiling a €650 million military aid package.
Merz emphasized unity among Ukraine’s allies, stating, “There are no longer any range restrictions on weapons delivered to Ukraine, neither by the British nor by the French nor by us nor by the Americans.”
“Ukraine can now also defend itself by attacking military positions in Russia.”
A government official clarified that this wasn’t a policy change, as Merz’s administration, in office since May 6, had never imposed such limits.President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to meet with Merz in berlin on Wednesday.
While Germany has shifted its position, the U.S. has yet to confirm lifting all restrictions on long-range missile supplies to Ukraine. According to the Kyiv Post, president Donald Trump is “seriously considering” lifting some restrictions.
Former President Joe Biden had previously authorized the use of ATACMS missiles for strikes on Russian territory in November 2024, after losing the presidential race to Trump. Ukraine has since used these weapons to strike targets in the Bryansk region and other areas of western Russia.
Chancellor Merz’s decision to lift similar restrictions could bolster Ukraine’s ability to strike deep inside Russian territory. In November, the Ukrainian military used British long-range Storm Shadow missiles with success, hitting targets in the Kursk region.
The announcement from Merz comes amid heightened uncertainty over a possible ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Last week, President Trump held calls with both Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky, stating that negotiations between the two countries will begin immediately.
However, Russia launched its largest attack on its neighbor since the start of the war, killing 12 people, including three children in a barrage of 367 drones and missiles.
What’s next
President Zelensky’s visit to Berlin on Wednesday could provide further clarity on Germany’s commitment to supporting ukraine with long-range weaponry and its strategy for de-escalating the conflict.