German Green Party Leader Urges Increased Ukraine Aid, Including Taurus Missiles

Green Party Calls for Enhanced Military Support

Franziska Brantner, a prominent figure and co-chair of Germany's Green Party (Alliance 90/The Greens), has publicly urged the German government to significantly increase its military assistance to Ukraine. Her appeal specifically highlighted the need for more advanced air defense systems and the provision of Taurus cruise missiles. Brantner conveyed these demands in an interview with the German news agency DPA.

Brantner emphasized that Ukraine possesses 'a right to call for additional support in air defenses' and that the German government, in collaboration with its European partners, should explore avenues to provide more assistance. She asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin 'does not want peace – he wants subjugation,' and accused him of committing war crimes through attacks on Ukraine's energy and heating infrastructure. The Green Party leader also advocated for the supply of German Taurus cruise missiles, which boast a range exceeding 500 kilometers, describing it as 'an important signal of political support.'

The Ongoing Taurus Missile Debate in Germany

The potential delivery of Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine has been a contentious political issue in Germany since the summer of 2023. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has expressed strong opposition to their supply, citing concerns about potential escalation of the conflict and the risk of Germany being drawn directly into the war. The German Bundestag has repeatedly rejected motions to provide Taurus missiles to Ukraine, with a majority voting against such proposals, including in March 2024.

Despite the government's reservations, the Green Party, including Brantner, has consistently championed the delivery of these long-range weapons. Other Green Party politicians have also previously called for increased military aid, including battle tanks, underscoring the party's firm pro-Ukraine stance.

Germany's Broader Commitment to Ukraine Aid

Germany stands as a significant international donor to Ukraine. As of September 2025, the German government had allocated or earmarked approximately 36 billion euro for bilateral civilian support and around 40 billion euro for military assistance to Ukraine. Overall, European countries had provided €132 billion in military, financial, and humanitarian aid by December 2024. Germany has also pledged over $2 billion in new military aid. The German Green Party's position on supporting Ukraine and NATO is notably robust, distinguishing it from some other Green parties globally.