British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met in Berlin on Wednesday to discuss support for Ukraine. The meeting highlighted unity between the two European powerhouses in their commitment to assist Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s invasion. However, the issue of supplying Ukraine with long-range Taurus cruise missiles remains a point of disagreement.
Scholz reaffirmed his refusal to send the missiles, citing concerns about their potential use and the need for German involvement. The Chancellor emphasized Germany’s significant contribution to Ukraine’s defense, including the recent pledge of a third Patriot missile battery. He also appealed to other European countries with Patriot systems to consider providing them to Ukraine.
Sunak praised Germany’s efforts in air defense, acknowledging that each country has unique capabilities to contribute. The UK Prime Minister announced an increase in defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by the end of the decade.
Both leaders stressed the importance of sustained and increased support for Ukraine. Scholz welcomed the recent approval of a $61 billion military aid package by the US Congress, describing it as an encouraging and necessary signal. He emphasized that Europe must not rely solely on the United States and must enhance its own assistance.
The meeting underscored the ongoing need for international aid to Ukraine, as its forces face shortages of shells and air defense systems. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly appealed for greater assistance, warning that Ukraine will be unable to defend itself without it.
