NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte deemed Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy‘s criticism of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz as unjustified, according to a report by news wire DPA.
Although Germany has been a vital ally of Ukraine, its hesitation in providing long-range Taurus cruise missiles has been a source of frustration in Kyiv, which is battling a foe armed with a powerful array of long-range weaponry.
“I have often told Zelenskiy that he should stop criticising Olaf Scholz, because I think it is unfair,” DPA quoted Rutte on Monday as saying in an interview.
The NATO chief also said that he, unlike Scholz, would supply Ukraine with Taurus cruise missiles and would not set limits on their use.
“In general, we know that such capabilities are very important for Ukraine,” Rutte said, adding that it was not up to him to decide what allies should deliver.
After a November telephone call by Scholz with Russia’s leader Vladimir Putin in November, Zelenskiy said it had opened a Pandora’s box that undermined efforts to isolate the Russian leader and end the war in Ukraine with a “fair peace”.
Germany’s Assistance To Ukraine
Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Germany has emerged as one of Ukraine’s most important allies, offering various forms of support in response to the ongoing conflict.
Germany’s commitment to Ukraine has been evident across diplomatic, financial, and military fronts.
One of the key aspects of Germany’s support has been its provision of military aid. While initially hesitant about sending weapons, Germany has since become a major supplier of military equipment, including anti-aircraft systems, artillery, and tanks.
Notably, the delivery of Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine marked a significant shift in Germany’s defence posture. This military assistance aims to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian aggression.
In addition to military support, Germany has provided substantial financial aid to Ukraine, helping to stabilize its economy and support government functions.
Germany has also facilitated sanctions against Russia in coordination with European Union partners, aiming to weaken Russia’s war effort.
Moreover, Germany has played a critical role in providing humanitarian assistance, offering refuge to millions of Ukrainian refugees and supporting various relief efforts.
(With inputs from Reuters)
