Germany, allies allow Ukraine to use long-range missiles after major Russian airstrike

Germany and its allies have lifted restrictions on Ukraine's missile use. This change allows Kyiv to fire long-range missiles into Russia for the first time. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced this on Monday in Berlin.

Until now, key allies had resisted Ukraine’s requests for such actions. Merz stated, “There are no longer any range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine.” He added that this includes support from Britain, France, and the U.S.

Ukraine can now defend itself by attacking military positions in Russia. This announcement follows a weekend of intense Russian drone and missile attacks on Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin faces international pressure for a ceasefire deal.

Merz recently became chancellor and differs from his predecessor Olaf Scholz. Scholz had repeatedly rejected lifting these restrictions. However, Merz did not confirm if Germany would supply long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine.

The U.S. lifted its restrictions last November under former President Joe Biden. He authorized Ukraine to use Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) inside Russia after months of discussions. Initially, the U.S. refused to provide ATACMS during the first two years of the war.

Russia has threatened that lifting these restrictions could lead to war with NATO. Putin warned that any attack supported by a nuclear power would be seen as a joint assault. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called Merz’s announcement “rather dangerous.”

Peskov said it contradicts efforts for a political settlement in the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to visit Berlin on Wednesday, according to sources.

Russian attacks over the weekend resulted in over two dozen deaths, including children. Zelensky urged Western allies to maintain pressure on Moscow to end the war. He stated that strong pressure is necessary to stop Russian brutality.

On Monday, Trump expressed frustration with Putin's actions and criticized Zelensky’s statements as problematic. Pressure is also growing within Trump's Republican base for stricter sanctions against Russia.

Several congressmen are urging Trump to arm Ukraine more heavily amid ongoing tensions.