German lawmaker urges stronger action against Russia, criticizes Scholz over Taurus missiles

Roderich Kiesewetter, a member of the Bundestag and the Christian Democratic Union, has sharply criticized German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for his perceived inaction regarding Russia's aggression. Kiesewetter believes Germany has delayed necessary measures for too long and should adopt a more assertive stance.

In an interview with Ukrinform, Kiesewetter outlined a series of actions he believes Germany must take immediately. These include closing "Russian Houses" (cultural centers often accused of being fronts for espionage), potentially expelling the Russian ambassador if evidence of wrongdoing emerges, and intensifying existing sanctions against Russia. He also stressed the importance of stopping Russia's "shadow fleet" and initiating training for Ukrainian forces on the use of Taurus cruise missiles.

Kiesewetter argued that these measures were overdue, stating, "We should have done this two or three years ago." He pointed out that Chancellor Scholz himself had previously promised such actions but had not followed through. The lawmaker emphasized that providing Taurus missiles to Ukraine would significantly enhance its ability to strike military targets, including bunkers, underground production facilities, and command centers, thereby improving Ukraine's overall battlefield situation.

Furthermore, Kiesewetter suggested that Germany could have increased its production of Taurus missiles much earlier. He also advocated for allowing other nations prepared to supply these missiles to Ukraine to do so, at the very least, Germany should commence the training program. The article notes that German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius previously stated that Ukraine no longer urgently needs Taurus missiles, as it is already successfully striking targets deep within Russia using other long-range weapons and drones.