**Germany Funds Long-Range Arms for Ukraine, Deliveries Expected by End of July**
Ukraine is set to receive hundreds of domestically produced long-range weapon systems by the end of July, thanks to a German-financed agreement. The deal was announced on July 11 by Major General Christian Freuding, who heads the Ukraine task force at the German Defense Ministry.
According to Freuding, the weapons will be supplied in a “high triple-digit quantity.” The general did not specify what type of long-range systems Germany is financing, but said that they are designed to reach deep into Russian territory and hit key targets such as command centers, airfields, and aircraft.
This move comes as Ukraine develops its own capabilities to strike deep inside Russian territory. The country has been receiving Western long-range weapons, including Storm Shadow/SCALP missiles from the UK and France, and ATACMS from the US. However, Germany had previously refused to supply its own Taurus cruise missiles.
Freuding acknowledged that the battlefield situation remains “militarily tense,” with Russian forces holding the initiative for several weeks or months, and increased pressure on major Ukrainian cities from the air. He also confirmed that Germany is in ongoing negotiations with the US over the potential purchase and transfer of one or two Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine.
**A Turning Point in German Support?**
The funding agreement marks a significant shift in Germany’s support for Ukraine. In May, Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Berlin would help finance the production and procurement of Ukrainian-made long-range weapons systems. Merz described the deal as “the beginning of a new form of military-industrial cooperation between our countries.”
The move has been welcomed by Ukraine, which has been calling on its partners to enhance its air defense capabilities amid Russia’s escalated aerial attacks on Ukrainian cities. The delivery of these long-range weapon systems is expected to boost Ukraine’s ability to defend itself and strike back at Russian targets.
**What Does This Mean for the Conflict?**
The arrival of German-funded long-range arms in Ukraine by the end of July could mark a turning point in the conflict. For the first time, Germany has committed to providing Ukraine with significant military aid, including long-range capabilities that can reach deep into Russian territory.
This move could change the dynamics on the battlefield and give Ukraine a much-needed boost in its fight against Russia. It also reflects a shift in Germany’s stance on the conflict, from one of cautious engagement to more active support for Ukraine’s defense efforts.
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