Ukraine is still trying to get German Taurus missiles, says Zelensky

The Ukrainian leadership continues active negotiations with Western allies on the supply of long-range weapons, despite previous refusals and political discussions in Berlin. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during a conversation with journalists, confirmed that Kyiv is not giving up attempts to obtain German Taurus cruise missiles. This issue remains on the permanent agenda of bilateral relations and is invariably raised during contacts with German political leaders.

Background and Diplomatic Context

The topic of supplying German-made Taurus cruise missiles has been raised by Kyiv for a long time. The issue of acquiring this long-range weapon has repeatedly become the subject of sharp discussions in the German parliament and government. Official Berlin previously expressed caution, fearing an escalation of the conflict, but the Ukrainian side emphasizes the critical importance of such weapons for protecting its infrastructure and conducting defensive operations at the front.

Negotiations with Germany's New Leadership

During recent diplomatic contacts, the Ukrainian leader discussed this problem with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who paid an official visit to Kyiv on October 4, 2026. Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that the availability of modern long-range systems is not just military reinforcement, but an important political signal confirming strong partnership and mutual trust between European countries and Ukraine.

Exchange of Technologies and Military Experience

The Head of the Ukrainian state particularly noted the need for a mutual exchange of military experience and technological developments gained during the full-scale war. According to the president, Ukraine is ready to share the accumulated knowledge with its partners in the anti-Russian coalition. In exchange, Kyiv expects comprehensive support, including scarce anti-ballistic systems and long-range missile systems capable of changing the balance of power.

Contradictory Data

While the Ukrainian side insists on the inevitability of receiving long-range weapons and continues diplomatic pressure, opinions regarding the transfer of Taurus are divided among Western expert circles and German political spheres. Some German politicians fear direct involvement in the conflict and escalation of tension, while supporters of supplies point to Ukraine's critical shortage of deep-strike capabilities and the need to integrate missiles with carriers available to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, such as Swedish Gripen fighters.