Rheinmetall ready to supply up to 50 tanks to Ukraine

German military equipment maker Rheinmetall is preparing to send 50 Leopard tanks to Ukraine to aid in the war against Russia. If given approval by the Bundestag, the German legislative body, the company could begin sending the first tanks within the next six weeks. This is a continuation of a significant reversal of previous policy from Germany, which in the past has avoided sending weapons to active conflict zones. However, Berlin has supplied Kyiv with missiles and anti-tank weapons throughout the Ukraine conflict thus far. 

German politicians have taken various stances on the sending of tanks, and many are adamant that Germany fulfill its promise to send military aid to Ukraine. Economy Minister Robert Habeck stated that “Germany made an obligation” and needed to follow through on it in its international relations. Free Democrats spokesman Marcus Faber also asserted that “If the Ukrainians want the tank, a way should be found” to ensure the equipment was sent. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has been expressing some hesitancy regarding approval to send the tanks and aims to coordinate with NATO and EU partners to ensure “That we provide such military support in the same way, and that no one is rushing ahead — including Germany.” Further, he stated, “I believe that this is precisely an issue where it would be a grave mistake for Germany to take a special role and a special path,” showing some willingness to delay the process in order to best follow protocols and international agreements. 

Scholz’s hesitancy is important in this deal, considering that sending heavy weaponry into a conflict zone is a potential escalation and significant involvement on Germany’s behalf. However, honoring Germany’s previous commitment to supply aid to Ukraine ought to be fulfilled, and the atrocities Russia has committed require accountability. Moreover, if Germany does decide to approve the tanks’ delivery, it is key that the country also continues to provide support and economic assistance to the refugees affected by this crisis. 

According to UN refugee agency estimates, since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in February, over 4.5 million Ukrainian civilians have fled to neighboring countries, with millions more internally displaced. Nations around the world have mobilized to provide aid to Ukrainian refugees and to condemn Russia through economic sanctions and an exodus of global companies. Shocking images of Russian atrocities in the area surrounding Kyiv have emerged on social media, sparking further outrage and calls for action.

Support for refugees and protection of evacuation routes are more important than ever, as violence is likely to escalate as a result of this heavy weaponry delivery if approved by the Bundestag. The implications of Germany’s military involvement in the conflict are complex, but the primary takeaway must continue to be the protection of civilians and the international condemnation of Russian atrocities committed in Ukraine.

 

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