Scholz: The German opposition is playing "Russian roulette" by promising Ukraine Taurus missiles.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized opposition leader Friedrich Merz for suggesting that Berlin issue an ultimatum to Russia regarding potential deliveries of Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine.

As reported by Tagesschau, Scholz made this statement at his party conference in Berlin.

“All I can say is: be cautious! Don’t play Russian roulette with Germany’s security,” Scholz stated, arguing that Merz wants to put an ultimatum to Russia, a nuclear state, regarding the possible transfer of long-range Taurus missiles.

The opposition criticizes the Chancellor's consistent refusal to send German-made Taurus long-range missiles to Ukraine.

During the conference, Scholz emphasized the importance of a calm and measured approach, according to reports. When it comes to issues of war and peace, cooler heads are needed, Scholz said. He promised to remain “steadfast and balanced.”

Scholz also highlighted that real negotiations regarding a possible peace plan should not take place “over the head of Ukraine.”

Merz, the parliamentary leader and candidate for Chancellor from the center-right CDU/CSU party, had previously expressed support for sending Taurus missiles to Ukraine.

“Putin should be told that if he does not stop bombing the civilians of Ukraine within 24 hours, Germany will send (to Kyiv) Taurus missiles to destroy the supply lines that the Putin regime uses to harm the civilian population of Ukraine,” he stated in the Bundestag on October 16.

Currently, Merz is a candidate for Chancellor and could challenge Scholz in the federal parliamentary elections, which may occur as early as February 2025 due to the collapse of Germany's governing coalition.

Taurus missiles have a range of up to 500 km, significantly exceeding other Western long-range missiles.