The German government vehemently denied Russia’s allegation that leaked conversations among high-ranking German military officials imply preparations for war against Russia, dismissing it as Russian propaganda, intended to sow internal discord. The leaked 38-minute recording features officers discussing the potential use of Taurus long-range cruise missiles by Ukraine against Russian forces.
In the recording, German officers, including the head of the air force, discuss deployment scenarios for the missiles, emphasizing the need for delivery and rapid deployment. However, the German government hasn’t approved the delivery of Taurus missiles to Ukraine, despite ongoing debates within Germany about supplying them. Germany, as the second-largest military aid supplier to Ukraine after the US, is increasing its support, but Chancellor Scholz maintains Germany’s stance against providing Taurus missiles to Ukraine, citing concerns about escalating tensions and potential repercussions.
While the authenticity of the recording has not been questioned, Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasizes that Germany is not considering direct involvement in the conflict. Russia’s foreign ministry issued vague threats of “dire consequences” for Germany regarding the substance of leak, further straining already tense relations with Russia since its invasion of Ukraine (Spectrum News NY1). The leak coincided with the burial of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, and just weeks before Russia’s presidential election.
