BERLIN — In a bold move signaling stronger Western military support for Ukraine, Germany’s newly appointed Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on Monday that Germany, along with other major allies, has lifted all range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine. This change allows Kyiv to strike deeper into Russian territory as it continues its defense against Russia’s ongoing invasion.

Speaking at a forum organized by Germany’s public broadcaster WDR, Merz stated, “There are no longer any range restrictions for weapons delivered to Ukraine — neither by the British, the French, us, nor the Americans.” Simply put, this means Ukraine can now target military positions much farther inside Russia, a capability it was previously denied.

Merz described this capability as “long-range fire,” referring to weapons systems capable of hitting military objectives far behind enemy lines. While he did not specify the exact weapons involved, experts believe this signals an easing of earlier restrictions on longer-range arms that began in late 2023.

Why This Matters: A Shift in Western Support

This announcement marks a significant shift in the West’s approach to supporting Ukraine’s war effort. Since Russia launched its invasion in February 2022, Western countries—including the U.S., UK, France, and Germany—have supplied Ukraine with a variety of weapons, but often with limitations on their range to avoid escalating the conflict beyond Ukrainian territory.

Germany has historically been cautious, providing defensive weaponry but hesitating to supply longer-range missiles. This cautious approach was largely shaped by concerns over provoking Russia or broadening the war.

Now, with Merz at the helm since early April, Germany appears ready to adopt a more assertive stance. Germany has been the second-largest provider of military aid to Ukraine after the United States, supplying tanks, artillery, and other critical equipment. Removing range restrictions could empower Ukraine to hit deeper Russian military targets, potentially shifting the strategic balance on the battlefield.

Diplomatic Reactions: Moscow’s Warning

The Kremlin responded swiftly. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called the decision “quite dangerous” and warned it could hinder efforts toward a peaceful political settlement. Russia views the supply of long-range weapons as a direct escalation, potentially increasing the conflict’s intensity and scope.

The Taurus Missile Debate: What’s Next for Germany’s Aid?

One of the most discussed questions is whether Germany will now approve the delivery of Taurus long-range cruise missiles, which can reach targets up to 500 kilometers (about 310 miles) away. Merz’s predecessor, Chancellor Olaf Scholz, consistently rejected supplying these missiles, citing the risk of escalating the war.

Merz, however, advocated for sending Taurus missiles while in opposition, suggesting a potential policy shift. Still, the German government is currently maintaining “strategic ambiguity” about the exact nature of its weapons shipments to Ukraine, deliberately withholding detailed information to avoid political backlash or tipping off adversaries.

Looking Ahead

This policy change signals a clear escalation in Western military support for Ukraine, enabling Kyiv to defend itself more aggressively and target Russian forces beyond the immediate frontline. While it may increase tensions between NATO countries and Russia, it also reflects growing Western resolve to back Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

As the war enters its second year, developments like these underline the complex balance of supporting Ukraine without sparking a wider conflict — a tightrope Germany and its allies are continuing to walk carefully.

Source: AP News – Germany’s Merz says there are no more range restrictions on the weapons supplied to Ukraine

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After weeks of tense negotiations and delays, Ukraine is set to sign a long-anticipated mineral resources deal with the United States as early as Wednesday, according to a source familiar with the matter.

The agreement, which has been in the works since President Donald Trump returned to the White House in January, is expected to establish a joint investment fund granting U.S. access to Ukraine’s vast untapped mineral reserves. In return, Washington will inject fresh investments into Ukraine’s recovery and development efforts.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal confirmed that the country’s economy minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, is en route to Washington to finalize the agreement. Speaking on Ukrainian television, Shmyhal said, “We are finalizing the last details with our American colleagues. I hope the agreement will be signed within the next 24 hours.”

If completed, the deal would mark a pivotal step in U.S.-Ukraine cooperation at a time when both security concerns and economic resilience are high on Kyiv’s agenda.

The path to this deal hasn’t been smooth. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was initially expected to ink the agreement during a February trip to Washington. However, that visit was cut short after a tense Oval Office meeting with Trump, leaving the deal unsigned.

At the center of the dispute were disagreements over security guarantees. Trump reportedly insisted on delaying any commitments on security until after Ukraine signed the agreement. At one point, Zelensky criticized the deal’s terms, saying it felt like he was being asked to “sell” his country.

Not long after that failed meeting, Trump temporarily froze U.S. aid to Ukraine—sending shockwaves through Europe and prompting renewed pledges of support from Kyiv’s European allies. Although aid has since resumed, the episode left a lasting impact.

While full details haven’t been made public, Shmyhal has characterized the agreement as a “strategic” and “equal” partnership. The U.S. and Ukraine will establish a jointly managed investment fund, with both countries contributing equally. According to Shmyhal, new U.S. military aid may also be counted as a contribution to the fund.

He also clarified that the deal will not retroactively include previous U.S. assistance. Instead, it is focused on fostering future collaboration, especially around rebuilding Ukraine’s economy and infrastructure.

Ukraine holds significant reserves of critical minerals—22 out of the 50 deemed essential by the U.S. Geological Survey. These include rare earth elements vital for electronics, green energy technologies, and defense systems.

Western nations, eager to reduce their dependency on China for these materials, have increasingly looked to Ukraine as a potential alternative source. The Biden administration had already laid the groundwork for this through a memorandum of understanding that encouraged U.S. investment in Ukraine’s mining sector, provided Kyiv offered economic incentives and upheld environmental standards.

Ukraine already has a similar agreement in place with the European Union, signed in 2021.

The signing of this U.S.-Ukraine mineral agreement—expected to happen Wednesday—could signal a new phase in the partnership between Washington and Kyiv, balancing economic opportunity with strategic security.

This story is still developing.

Source: CNN – Ukraine expects to sign long-awaited US mineral deal Wednesday, source says

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French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed that France and Britain will move ahead with plans to deploy troops in Ukraine to secure a future peace deal with Russia, despite resistance from some European allies. Speaking after a high-level summit, Macron acknowledged that while “several” nations expressed interest in joining the initiative, “it is not unanimous.”

The proposed force aims to act as a deterrent, preventing Russia from violating any future peace agreement. “We do not need unanimity to achieve it,” Macron emphasized, adding that French and British military officials would collaborate with Ukraine to determine the scope and positioning of the force.

“There will be a reassurance force with several European nations that will deploy,” he stated firmly.

The summit, attended by leaders from nearly 30 countries, as well as NATO and EU officials, comes at a critical moment in the three-year war. Diplomatic efforts, largely spurred by U.S. President Donald Trump, have gained momentum, but intense fighting continues.

Hours before the summit, Russian drone strikes injured over 20 people, while heavy shelling in Kherson killed one person and caused widespread power outages, according to Ukrainian officials.

Macron and other leaders accused Russia of feigning interest in peace negotiations while continuing its aggressive campaign.

“They are playing games and buying time,” said U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. “We can’t let them drag this out while they continue prosecuting their illegal invasion.”

Recent U.S.-brokered agreements, including one to protect Black Sea shipping routes and another to halt long-range strikes on energy infrastructure, were seen as steps toward peace. However, disputes between Ukraine and Russia over implementation and alleged violations have cast doubt on the prospects of a lasting agreement.

A key concern among European leaders is whether the U.S. will support the deployment with air power and other military resources.

“This will require the engagement and support of the United States,” Starmer said, noting that discussions with Trump have been ongoing. Macron, however, urged Europe to prepare for a scenario in which the U.S. does not participate.

“You have to hope for the best but prepare for the worst,” Macron warned. “My hope is that the Americans will support us and even play an active role. But we have to be ready in case they don’t.”

Building a force of 10,000 to 30,000 troops—a figure suggested by U.K. officials—would be a significant undertaking, particularly for European nations that have downsized their militaries since the Cold War.

While some European nations are exploring military contributions, others have publicly declined participation. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis dismissed the discussion as “divisive” and counterproductive to peace efforts. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also ruled out sending troops, stressing the need for U.S. involvement in future negotiations.

The proposed deployment is seen as a test of Europe’s commitment to bolstering its own defense, particularly in response to pressure from Trump for European nations to take greater responsibility for their security.

Although the U.S. has led ceasefire negotiations, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy insists that European leaders, represented by Macron and Starmer, must be directly involved.

“We do not consider any alternative,” Zelenskyy said. “Europe must have clear representation in these negotiations.”

While military commitments remain a contentious issue, summit participants largely agreed on maintaining and even intensifying sanctions against Russia to push for a genuine peace settlement.

“Lifting sanctions on Russia right now would be a disaster for diplomacy,” Zelenskyy argued. “Sanctions are one of the few real tools we have to pressure Russia into serious negotiations.”

Russia has demanded that sanctions be lifted as part of a Black Sea ceasefire agreement, but the U.S. has only agreed to assist in restoring Russia’s access to global agricultural markets. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Russia’s demands are being evaluated but will be subject to further discussions with Trump.

“They’re trying to trap the U.S. in endless, pointless negotiations to buy time and seize more territory,” Zelenskyy warned.

Despite diplomatic efforts, fighting remains intense. To bolster Ukraine’s defenses, Macron announced a new aid package worth 2 billion euros ($2.15 billion), including light tanks, air defense systems, and anti-tank missiles.

Meanwhile, Russian attacks continue. Overnight drone strikes injured at least 18 people in the Kharkiv region and three in Dnipro, while shelling in Zaporizhzhia disrupted power and communications.

Additionally, Ukraine’s military reported a successful strike on Russia’s Engels airbase on March 20, destroying 96 air-to-air cruise missiles and significant aviation fuel reserves. Satellite imagery appeared to confirm damage to ammunition and weapons storage facilities at the base, a key hub for Russia’s nuclear-capable bombers.

As European leaders navigate complex diplomatic and military challenges, the question remains whether a European-led force can effectively deter future Russian aggression. With divisions among allies and uncertainty over U.S. involvement, the road to peace remains fraught with obstacles.

Source: AP News – French president says not all European allies agree on a proposed force for Ukraine

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Putin Gains Momentum Ahead of U.S.-Russia Talks

President Vladimir Putin is heading into critical U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia with newfound confidence. The Trump administration has effectively ended his international isolation, fractured Western unity on the Ukraine conflict, and cast doubt on America’s commitment to defending Europe. This shift marks a dramatic pivot toward Putin and away from America’s traditional allies.

Trump’s team has sent mixed signals about the upcoming peace talks, fueling concerns that the U.S. president may strike a deal that favors Russia—even at Ukraine’s expense. Reports that European allies might be excluded from negotiations have triggered alarm across the continent. France has already called for an emergency meeting in Paris to address the situation.

Even more concerning, Trump has suggested that Ukraine itself may not have a seat at the table—despite being the nation fighting for its survival against Russian aggression. His recent remarks only deepened fears that Washington is moving toward a settlement that could legitimize Putin’s invasion.

Trump Signals Possible Putin Meeting Soon

Speaking to reporters in Florida on Sunday, Trump raised the prospect of an imminent meeting with Putin, saying, “We’re moving along. We’re trying to get a peace with Russia, Ukraine, and we’re working very hard on it.”

His comments came shortly after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made it clear on NBC’s Meet the Press that Ukraine “will never accept any decisions between the United States and Russia about Ukraine.” In response, Trump offered only a vague assurance that he would be “involved.”

Saudi Arabia Hosts U.S.-Russia Talks Amid Western Concern

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff will lead the U.S. delegation at the Saudi-hosted talks. Saudi Arabia, which has maintained strong ties with both Moscow and the Trump administration, is positioning itself as a key mediator in the negotiations.

Rubio framed the meeting as a follow-up to Trump’s recent call with Putin, stating on Face the Nation, “The next few weeks and days will determine whether it’s serious or not. One phone call does not make peace. One phone call does not solve a war as complex as this one.”

However, conflicting messages from Trump’s team have created confusion. His Ukraine envoy, Keith Kellogg, initially suggested that European allies would be excluded from the talks, contradicting Rubio’s later claim that both Ukraine and Europe must be involved.

Is Trump Handing Putin a Victory?

Foreign policy experts warn that Trump’s overtures to Putin could undermine Ukraine’s negotiating position. European leaders fear Trump may cut a deal that cements Russia’s territorial gains, particularly after his administration hinted that a peace deal would exclude Ukraine’s path to NATO membership.

Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski criticized Trump’s call with Putin, arguing that it “vindicated” the Russian leader and weakened Ukraine’s morale. However, he acknowledged that “when President Trump says as part of a deal there will have to be European troops, we will have to be involved.”

Trump’s Pro-Putin Shift Alarms Europe

Trump’s latest moves signal a stark departure from previous U.S. policy, with his administration showing sympathy for Putin’s justifications for the war. Notably:

• Trump called for Russia’s return to the G8, despite its 2014 expulsion over the annexation of Crimea.
• Vice President JD Vance delivered a scathing speech in Munich attacking European democracy, while also meeting with Germany’s far-right AfD party just days before the country’s election.
• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared that the U.S. would not send peacekeeping troops to Ukraine and downplayed Kyiv’s NATO aspirations—though his comments were later softened by other officials.

These actions have delighted the Kremlin. As Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, put it: “It’s like Easter, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Vladimir Putin’s birthday all in one day.”

France Calls Emergency Meeting as NATO Unity Fractures

Concerned about Trump’s shift away from traditional alliances, French President Emmanuel Macron convened an emergency meeting on Monday with key European leaders, including those from Germany, Britain, Italy, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Denmark, as well as top EU and NATO officials.

Europe’s long-standing dependence on U.S. military power has left it vulnerable. Years of defense budget cuts have weakened NATO’s preparedness, making Trump’s demand for greater European responsibility in defense particularly challenging. Leaders now face difficult choices between boosting military spending and maintaining their social welfare programs.

Despite these challenges, some leaders are taking steps to align with Trump’s demands. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is set to meet with Trump, has indicated he is open to sending British troops to Ukraine as part of a peace deal. Writing in The Daily Telegraph, he acknowledged the need for increased European defense spending while emphasizing that U.S. support remains crucial.

Saudi Arabia’s Growing Role in Global Diplomacy

The talks in Saudi Arabia highlight the kingdom’s rising influence on the world stage. Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a key power broker, strengthening ties with both Washington and Moscow. Hosting the peace talks boosts its prestige and reinforces its role in shaping global conflicts.

Saudi Arabia is also central to another of Trump’s foreign policy goals—negotiating a resolution to the Israel-Gaza conflict. The administration hopes to broker a Saudi-Israeli normalization deal, but this effort faces strong resistance from Arab states, especially after Trump’s controversial proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza—an idea widely condemned as ethnic cleansing.

The High Stakes of Trump’s Foreign Policy Gamble

Trump’s unconventional approach to diplomacy carries both risks and opportunities. His willingness to negotiate directly with Putin could lead to breakthroughs—or disastrous concessions. His push to reshape NATO and sideline Europe may embolden authoritarian regimes, while his support for strongman leaders could further destabilize global alliances.

As Polish Foreign Minister Sikorski warned in Munich: “The credibility of the United States depends on how this war ends—not just the Trump administration, but the United States itself.”

With the Saudi peace talks approaching, the world is watching whether Trump’s deal-making will bring an end to the war—or leave Ukraine and its allies more vulnerable than ever.

Key Takeaways:

Trump’s policy shift favors Putin, raising concerns in Europe and Ukraine.
Saudi Arabia hosts peace talks, solidifying its role as a global power broker.
Trump’s mixed signals and NATO skepticism create uncertainty in transatlantic relations.
Europe scrambles to respond, with France leading an emergency meeting.
The outcome of the talks could reshape global security—and America’s role in it.

Source

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Ukraine has escalated its military strategy by launching U.S.-made Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) against a Russian weapons depot in Bryansk, marking the first use of these long-range weapons inside Russian territory. The strike, confirmed by two U.S. officials, signifies a turning point as the conflict reaches its 1,000th day.

A Strategic Shift

The Biden administration recently authorized Ukraine to deploy longer-range U.S. missiles against targets inside Russia, lifting a longstanding restriction aimed at minimizing escalation. The Ukrainian attack occurred just two days after the policy shift, signaling Kyiv’s eagerness to leverage this new capability.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, while neither confirming nor denying the Bryansk strike, stated during a news conference, “Ukraine has long-range capabilities. We now have ATACMS and will use them.”

Details of the Attack

Russia’s Defense Ministry reported that Ukraine fired six ATACMS missiles at 3:25 a.m. local time on Tuesday. Russian air defenses intercepted five of the missiles, while fragments from the sixth caused a fire at a military facility. No casualties or significant damage were reported.

Putin’s Response: Nuclear Doctrine Update

The attack coincided with Russian President Vladimir Putin announcing updates to Russia’s nuclear doctrine. Moscow will now treat aggression by non-nuclear states, in collaboration with nuclear powers, as a joint threat to Russia. The revised policy appears to lower the threshold for deploying nuclear weapons, a move seen as further saber-rattling.

U.S. Authorization and Global Reactions

President Biden’s decision to allow ATACMS use inside Russia reflects a calculated risk to support Ukraine amid intensified Russian offensives. However, the decision followed months of debate among American officials concerned about potential escalation and limited missile stockpiles.

Western allies remain cautious. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reiterated opposition to supplying Taurus missiles to Ukraine, stating at the G20 summit in Brazil that such actions would be a “mistake.”

North Korea’s Involvement

Adding to the complexity, thousands of North Korean troops have reportedly been deployed to Russia’s Kursk region, a former Ukrainian counteroffensive site. U.S. officials condemned this as a “major escalation” by Moscow.

Ukraine’s Long-Range Strategy

For months, Zelensky has emphasized the importance of long-range weapons in his “Victory Plan” to reclaim Ukrainian territory. The use of ATACMS now gives Kyiv the ability to strike military targets deep within Russia, complementing its arsenal of long-range drones and domestically produced Neptune cruise missiles.

Zelensky praised the decision to supply ATACMS, stating, “Missiles will speak for themselves.”

Russia’s Response and Rhetoric

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov denounced the use of long-range U.S. missiles as a “new phase of war.” Despite Putin’s frequent nuclear threats, U.S. officials, including Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh, dismissed any indications of imminent nuclear action, labeling the rhetoric as consistent with Russia’s behavior throughout the conflict.

Conclusion

As the war enters its third year, Ukraine’s use of U.S.-made ATACMS underscores a significant escalation in its defense strategy. While Kyiv gains crucial capabilities, the global community watches closely, wary of potential repercussions in this increasingly complex and dangerous conflict.

Source

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