Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) confirmed the delivery of German battle tanks to Ukraine in the Bundestag on Wednesday.
"We will also provide the Ukraine with Leopard 2 battle tanks," said Scholz at the beginning of the government survey.
The goal is to deploy two tank battalions, along with allies.
Germany will organize the delivery and take care of the education and training for maintenance and repairs.
Lorenz Hemicker
Editor in Politics
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At the same time, Scholz defended himself against accusations that Germany organized and participated in the delivery of main battle tanks too slowly and too late.
"If we were to follow your advice, it would be a mistake for Germany's security," said the Chancellor in response to a question from CDU MP Jürgen Hardt.
"It would be a mistake to march alone on this issue."
Making decisions in close coordination with the allies is "the principle that this government has".
At the same time, all measures must be taken to enable Ukraine to defend itself and to do what is necessary to minimize an escalation into a war between Russia and NATO.
The right thing to do is to “work your way forward bit by bit”.
That is the only principle that offers security in such a situation.
With a view to the widespread criticism of Germany, Scholz emphasized that Berlin is the most important European arms supplier for Ukraine alongside London.
That, he said, should stay that way.
Germany will always be at the fore when it comes to deliveries to Kyiv.
With a view to the concerns of skeptical citizens, Scholz campaigned for trust in the federal government.
The support is possible without the risks growing in the wrong direction.