German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasised that Ukraine's permission to use German weapons against Russia won't escalate the conflict, as it is a question of self-defence.
Points of attention
- Allowing Ukraine to use weapons transferred by Germany against Russia is only an opportunity for self-defence and the protection of large cities.
- The German Minister of Defence explained Berlin's decision as a strategic adjustment to the growing conflict.
- The Chancellor of Germany emphasises caution and notes that this decision will not cause an escalation of the conflict.
Permission to strike the Russian Federation with German weapons will not be an escalation
We are sure this will not contribute to escalation, because - as the American president [Joe Biden] also said - it is only about the possibility of protecting a large city such as Kharkiv. And I think everyone understands that it should be possible. It has always been possible under international law.
Olaf Scholz
Chancellor of Germany
He added that caution is needed in this case. According to Scholz, German citizens can rely on this.
I will not allow any pressure to convince me to make a wrong and untimely decision, - assured the politician.
Ukraine gets permission to strike Russia with GMLRS and HIMARS
Ukraine can use American GMLRS rockets, HIMARS artillery missile systems and other artillery systems to strike military targets on the territory of Russia.
The permission does not extend to ATACMS long-range surface-to-surface missiles.
The Wall Street Journal reported it regarding the unnamed US officials.
The publication noted that to defend against the Russian offensive in the Kharkiv region, the Defense Forces will be able to use American GMLRS rockets, HIMARS artillery missile systems and other artillery systems
At the same time, changes in US policy will not apply to the use of long-range ATACMS surface-to-surface missiles on Russian territory.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius previously explained Berlin's decision to allow Ukraine to use German weapons against military facilities in Russia as a "strategic adjustment to the changing situation."
