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Scholz Speaks Out Against Supplying Ukraine With Taurus Missiles After Visit

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated on Wednesday that his position opposing both the supply of long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine and the prospect of strikes deep into Russia remains unchanged following his official visit to Kiev.
Sputnik
"I believe it is correct to say that my decision has not changed. We will not authorize delivering strikes deep into Russia with the dangerous weapon we have transferred. The same pertains to the supplies of cruise missiles that are widely discussed now," Scholz told the German parliament.
Responding to lawmakers' questions, Scholz said that he does not intend to initiate training for Ukrainian military personnel on the use of the Taurus missiles, a decision that would allow the next government to transfer these missiles to Ukraine more swiftly, should it choose to do so.
Moscow contends that arms deliveries to Ukraine hinder the prospects for a peaceful resolution and directly involve NATO countries in the conflict. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov emphasized that any shipments containing arms destined for Ukraine would be regarded as legitimate targets for Russia. He asserted that the United States and NATO are directly involved in the conflict, not only through the provision of weapons but also by training personnel in the UK, Germany, Italy, and other nations. The Kremlin has stated that the influx of weapons from the West into Ukraine is detrimental to negotiations and will have adverse consequences.
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