President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine is making his way to Berlin on Wednesday, marking his first visit to Germany since Chancellor Friedrich Merz took office earlier this month. This visit is particularly significant given the current dynamics of the German-Ukrainian relationship, especially with swirling doubts about America's ongoing support for Ukraine. Chancellor Merz has positioned himself as a leading advocate within Europe for bolstering Ukraine, distancing himself from the hesitant approach of former Chancellor Olaf Scholz. However, he does face challenges from factions within his own coalition regarding increased military assistance to Ukraine.
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, it took over a year for Scholz to welcome Zelensky to Berlin. The upcoming one-day visit will also be Zelensky’s third engagement with Merz since his inauguration on May 6.
What are the key topics of discussion expected at this meeting? Military support will be at the forefront, particularly the highly sought-after Taurus cruise missile, which was co-developed by Germany and Sweden. Known for its size, advanced navigation capabilities, and a range of 310 miles, the Taurus is designed to strike deeper into Russian-held territory than other missiles currently in Ukraine's arsenal. Zelensky has long included the Taurus on his wishlist, especially as Britain and France are already supplying Ukraine with their joint SCALP/Storm Shadow missiles. The Taurus could target crucial infrastructure, including bridges linking Crimea to Russia's mainland, providing a significant strategic advantage for Ukraine in this ongoing conflict.
