Telegraph: Ukraine defense support at risk as German government dissolves

Germany has plunged into political crisis after Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed Finance Minister Christian Lindner, leading to the collapse of the country’s coalition government and potentially impacting Ukraine’s defense support, The Telegraph says.

The Telegraph notes that, while current aid commitments are expected to remain unchanged, political uncertainty may hinder any increase in support at a critical time for Ukraine’s defense needs amid the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war. Additionally, Britain’s depleted military resources limit its ability to fill any potential gaps in aid.

The dismissal occurred on 6 November night. The next day, opposition conservatives urged Scholz to hold a vote of confidence immediately, enabling elections in January. The sacked minister and FDP leader, Lindner, also pressed Scholz to call for a confidence vote and new elections.

According to The Telegraph, the government’s collapse stems from disputes over environmental policies, with Lindner advocating for a reassessment of nuclear energy phase-out plans and criticizing Germany’s commitment to net-zero goals.

Meanwhile, Lindner himself says Scholz fired him after his proposal to approve the transfer of Taurus missiles to Ukraine instead of allocating financial aid. Taurus missiles can target hardened structures, including Russia’s illegally built Kerch Bridge, which falls within their range. However, Scholz remains strongly opposed to authorizing these missile supplies for Ukraine, fearing Moscow might expand the war beyond Ukraine in response.

German ruling coalition’s collapse badly timed for Ukraine

The timing of the political crisis raises concerns about Ukraine’s defense capabilities. The Telegraph cites an unnamed Ukrainian general describing the country’s defenses as “crumbling” in the face of Russian advances.

Germany, which has emerged as Europe’s largest provider of military aid to Ukraine, surpassing Britain, plans to reduce spending in 2025. The country expects Ukraine to sustain itself through loans from frozen Russian assets.

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