Merz says four Western nations have lifted restrictions on Ukrainian strikes inside Russia

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and the United States have now authorized Ukraine to strike targets deep within Russian territory using Western-supplied weapons. 

Speaking during a broadcast of the WDR Europaforum on German public television, he said: “There are no longer any restrictions from these four countries on Ukraine.”

He added: “This means Ukraine now has the right to defend itself, including by targeting military sites inside Russia. Until recently, it was not allowed to do so, and apart from very rare exceptions, it didn’t. Now, it can.” 

Merz called the move a major shift in how Ukraine can conduct the war, stressing that Russia “ruthlessly attacks civilian infrastructure — bombing cities, kindergartens, hospitals, and care homes for the elderly.”

The newly elected German leader said that “Ukraine is not doing that, and we place great importance on ensuring it stays that way.” 

Earlier, Merz had criticized his predecessor Olaf Scholz for being hesitant in supporting Ukraine. He called for stronger military aid, including long-range Taurus missiles.

He later moderated his position, stating that any decisions about supplying such missiles would be made in coordination with Germany’s allies.

In a May 15 interview with Zeit, Merz said: “We no longer want to publicly debate arms deliveries.”

He said, “such public discussions benefit Putin and provide him with valuable intelligence. We will keep our promises and deliver the military support Ukraine needs.”