Putin Warns Germany Over Involvement with Taurus Missiles

In a stern warning issued on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin cautioned Germany against involvement in the Ukraine conflict, specifically concerning the supply of Taurus cruise missiles to Kyiv. Putin emphasized that Moscow would consider this move as direct involvement in the conflict.

Despite Ukraine's repeated requests for the missiles, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius stated earlier that Germany is not contemplating their delivery. The Taurus missiles, which have a range exceeding 300 miles, would require Western satellite intelligence and German officers for targeting, which poses further complications.

President Putin said he remains open to communication with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, stressing that Russia doesn't reject dialogue. However, he expressed skepticism about Germany's neutrality, citing the presence of German tanks in Ukraine and positioning Germany as a supporter of Kyiv.

(With inputs from agencies.)