Comments by Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz signaling openness to sending Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine have drawn praise from European allies but skepticism from a key domestic coalition partner.
Merz, widely expected to become Germany’s next chancellor, said Sunday that he would consider supplying the long-range missiles as part of a broader European support package for Kiev. He suggested they could be used to strike the Kerch Bridge, a vital link between Russia and occupied Crimea.
The stance marks a sharp departure from outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who repeatedly refused to provide Ukraine with the German-made weapons.
European officials applauded Merz’s shift. Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp called it an "important signal of Europe’s stance," while Poland’s foreign minister described the idea as "very good." EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas urged greater support, stating that Europe must "do more so Ukraine can defend itself and civilians do not have to die."
However, at home, Merz’s position faced pushback from acting Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, a senior figure in the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the CDU’s likely coalition partner. At a conference in Hannover, Pistorius questioned the move, acknowledging "fair points" in favor of supplying the missiles but stressing there were also "good arguments against it."
He denied ever supporting the delivery and cast doubt on Germany’s ability to coordinate with allies, noting, "I don’t know any European partner with such a system."
Johann Wadephul, a CDU lawmaker and potential foreign minister pick, expressed confidence that a compromise with the SPD could be reached. Referencing Russia’s recent deadly attack on Sumy, he argued the SPD understood the need to "deal with Putin differently." Still, he emphasized the coalition would seek a "common position supported by everyone."
So far, the U.S., U.K., and France have provided Ukraine with long-range missiles.
Germany’s incoming CDU/CSU-SPD coalition is already facing internal strife—even before officially taking power.
Six days after finalizing their coalition deal, disagreements have erupted over whether policy pledges—such as income tax cuts for low- and middle-earners—are firm commitments or budget-dependent.
"We make no promises we cannot keep," Merz told ARD, referencing a clause in the 144-page agreement stipulating all policies must be financially viable.
But SPD co-leader Saskia Esken insisted the tax relief was a "clear agreement," telling Rheinische Post that workers and businesses "need a signal of confidence."
Meanwhile, the SPD’s youth wing, Jusos—representing about 12% of party members—has rejected the coalition deal, particularly opposing its strict migration measures. Jusos leader Philipp Türmer called the agreement a "ticking time bomb," demanding revisions.
SPD leadership has ruled out renegotiation. "There will be no second round," party chair Lars Klingbeil said. "If this fails, there will be new elections or a minority government."
The SPD’s 358,000 members will vote on the deal by April 29. If approved, Merz could be elected chancellor in a Bundestag vote as early as May 6.