Germany Lifts Weapon Range Limits for Ukraine, Bolsters Defense Against Russia

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Western allies, including Germany, have lifted restrictions on the range of weapons supplied to Ukraine, allowing Kyiv to use long-range weapons to target military positions inside Russia. This marks a significant shift from previous policies, reflecting a more robust military support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that Germany will maintain strategic ambiguity by not publicly disclosing specific weapon supplies to avoid alerting Moscow. Concurrently, Germany is preparing for a potential military threat from Russia by increasing its weapons stockpile and capabilities, including advanced air defense and long-range precision strike systems by 2029. Meanwhile, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius indicated that while deployment of German peacekeeping troops to Ukraine is not currently planned, it remains a possibility under an international mandate following a complete ceasefire. The German government emphasizes coordination with allies and readiness to support Ukraine militarily while seeking diplomatic solutions.