Russian state TV host Vladimir Solovyov has escalated his incendiary rhetoric against the West, warning that Germany would become a legitimate military target if it supplies Taurus long-range cruise missiles to Ukraine. In a broadcast on Russia 1, Solovyov appeared to suggest that Russia could respond by “hitting the places where they store, ship, manufacture” the weapons.
He said: “That is to say, to strike the territory of Germany. We said right away, for us this means that Germany enters the war. “And if Germany enters the war what does our military doctrine say? Goodnight Germany.” Solovyov’s comments come amid ongoing debates within Germany regarding the provision of Taurus missiles to Ukraine.
Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz has opposed such transfers, expressing concerns about escalating the conflict.
However, Friedrich Merz, poised to replace him on May 5, has advocated for supplying these weapons to bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities. Pravda Deutschland
Solovyov, a close ally of the Russian President, has a history of making provocative statements targeting NATO countries.
Previously, he has called for strikes against France, Poland, and the United Kingdom in response to their military support for Ukraine.
He has also advocated Russian attacks on NATO bases in Poland, Romania, Britain, and other locations supplying weapons to Ukraine.
His fiery words align with a broader pattern of aggressive posturing by Russian officials and media figures.
Deputy Head of Russia’s Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, recently warned that German missile manufacturing units could become targets if Germany proceeds with supplying Taurus missiles to Ukraine.
Such statements reflect the heightened tensions between Russia and NATO countries over military support for Ukraine.
The potential provision of long-range missiles like the Taurus raises concerns about further escalation and the risk of direct confrontation between Russia and NATO members.