Germany’s new Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has announced the lifting of all range limitations on weapons provided to Ukraine. This strategic shift also applies to arms supplied by allies, including the United Kingdom, France, and the United States. According to Merz, this move allows Ukraine to target military positions within Russian territory, marking a significant escalation in the West’s military support for Kyiv. The announcement signals a clear intent to enhance Ukraine’s capability to retaliate against Russian offensives.
Merz Balances Military Support With Diplomacy in Ukraine Conflict Strategy Shift
Despite this military escalation, Merz is trying to maintain diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire while keeping Western support intact. His government appears to be balancing a dual approach: strengthening Ukraine’s defensive and offensive capacities while continuing to promote peace negotiations. By removing range restrictions, Germany and its allies aim to level the playing field for Ukraine without abandoning diplomatic initiatives.
Germany Lifts Weapon Range Limits for Ukraine as Merz Pushes Dual Path of Force and DiplomacyMerz elaborated on this new policy during a public forum, explaining that Ukraine’s ability to carry out long-range strikes — referred to in military jargon as “long-range fire” — is crucial for effective self-defense. Previously, Ukraine was restricted in its ability to strike beyond its own borders, but with these new measures, it can engage military targets deep in Russian territory. This, Merz emphasized, is a necessary evolution in military support as the conflict intensifies.
Merz Urges Democratic Vigilance as Kremlin Warns of Retaliation Over Weapon Policy
Amid international developments, Merz also emphasized the importance of protecting democracy within Germany. Referring to the country’s constitution, the Basic Law, he highlighted the growing internal and external threats to Germany’s freedom and democratic values. Merz called on citizens and institutions to be vigilant and proactive in defending the constitutional state, linking national resilience to broader geopolitical stability.
The Kremlin responded strongly to Merz’s announcement. Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for the Russian government, condemned the lifting of range restrictions, warning that such actions undermine efforts toward a political settlement. Moscow further cautioned that Western countries enabling long-range attacks on Russian territory could be deemed direct participants in the conflict, potentially facing retaliation, including the threat of nuclear escalation. The move has thus added another layer of tension to an already volatile geopolitical situation.