Germany Funds Long-Range Strikes in Ukraine, Russia Warns of Retaliation
Berlin is significantly escalating its support for Ukraine's war effort by directly financing long-range strike capabilities, a move that has drawn swift and severe condemnation from Russia.
Bundeswehr General Christian Freuding confirmed that the first German-funded long-range weapons are set for delivery to Ukraine by the end of July, with hundreds more to follow. In a significant shift, Germany is also now directly funding the production of long-range drones inside Ukraine—a first for any NATO country. These systems have already been used to strike Russian targets. According to Freuding, the objective is to enable Kyiv to target military assets deep behind Russian lines, including airfields, ammunition depots, and command centers.
Russia's response has been immediate and stark. Former Prime Minister Sergey Stepashin issued a stern warning, stating that Russia views this as a provocation and a potential act of war if these weapons are used to strike inside Russian territory. "We will regard Germany's involvement as direct participation in the war if such missiles fly to the center of our country," Stepashin declared. He further threatened, "And we know where the factories that produce these missiles, including the Taurus, are located. Let them think about that." Stepashin's remarks also targeted CDU leader Friedrich Merz, who recently discussed long-range missile deployment with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Moscow is now framing Berlin's actions as a clear crossing of a military red line, raising the specter of Russian retaliation not only against Ukraine but potentially against German-linked infrastructure supporting the war effort. With initial deliveries imminent and German-backed drones already operational, a dangerous new flashpoint is emerging for Moscow. The focus of potential retaliation is no longer just on those who launch the weapons, but on the nations funding them—and this time, Berlin is squarely in Russia's crosshairs.
