Fact Check: "Germany has refrained from disclosing information about the delivery of long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine since May 2023."
What We Know
The claim that Germany has stopped disclosing information regarding the delivery of long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine is supported by several sources. In May 2023, Ukraine formally requested these missiles, but the German government, under then-Chancellor Olaf Scholz, opposed the delivery at that time (source-5). Following this, Germany changed its approach to military assistance, deciding to limit public disclosures about its support to Ukraine. A German diplomat indicated that the previous transparency was inadvertently aiding Russian propaganda (source-3).
Analysis
The evidence suggests that Germany has indeed refrained from disclosing details about the Taurus missiles since May 2023. The shift in policy aligns with broader NATO strategies to limit information that could be exploited by Russia (source-3). This decision reflects a tactical change in response to the ongoing conflict and the perceived risks associated with transparency.
However, it is important to note that while Germany has limited its disclosures, this does not imply a complete cessation of all communication regarding military support. Reports indicate that discussions and negotiations continue, albeit with less public detail (source-5).
The sources used in this analysis are credible, with the first being a reputable news outlet, The Moscow Times, which provides insights based on anonymous NATO officials. The second source is from Ukrinform, a well-known Ukrainian news agency. Both sources are recognized for their coverage of international affairs, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict.
Conclusion
The claim that Germany has refrained from disclosing information about the delivery of long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine since May 2023 is Partially True. While it is accurate that Germany has limited its disclosures, the context of ongoing discussions and the nature of military support remain somewhat ambiguous. Thus, while the claim captures a significant aspect of Germany's current policy, it does not encompass the entirety of the situation.
