Pistorius announced new aid package for Ukraine: IRIS-T but no Taurus

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced a new aid package for Ukraine during his visit to Kyiv on November 21.

According to RBC-Ukraine, he made the announcement at a joint briefing with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.

According to Pistorius, the new military aid package will include 4 IRIS-T systems, 20,000 155-mm caliber shells, anti-tank mines, and other weapons.

"This is the fifth such package since last winter. And I am sure it will help you in your fight against Russian aggression," Pistorius said.

When asked about the possibility of supplying Taurus missiles, Pistorius said that "there is no new information on Taurus". However, he said that Germany plans to supply Ukraine with 140,000 155-mm missiles next year.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius arrived in Ukraine on November 21 for an unannounced visit. This is Pistorius' second visit to Kyiv since taking office as defense minister. The last time Pistorius visited Kyiv was in February 2023.

As a reminder, Ukraine has been asking Germany for several months for the transfer of Taurus cruise missiles. They are capable of hitting up to 500 kilometers. In early November, it was reported that Germany had not yet decided whether to supply Ukraine with long-range Taurus missiles. One of the reasons for the refusal was the fact that Germany is allegedly afraid of a direct confrontation with Russia.

Author – Anastasiya Glotova, 21/11/2023