After overruling its own weapons transfer policy, Germany has decided to send weapons to Ukraine to help the country’s defense against Russia.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced Saturday that 1,000 anti-tank weapons and 500 Stinger missiles will be supplied to Ukraine.
“The Russian invasion of Ukraine marks a turning point. It is our duty to do our best to support Ukraine in defending itself against Putin’s invading army,” he tweeted.
“That is why we are delivering 1000 anti-tank weapons and 500 #Stinger missiles to our friends in #Ukraine,” Scholz continued.
Daily Mail reported that “the German economy and climate ministry said Germany is allowing the Netherlands to ship 400 German-made anti-tank weapons to Ukraine”.
14 armored vehicles and up to 10,000 tonnes of fuel will also be sent to Ukraine.
Germany has held a policy of not exporting weapons to war zones for many years, partly due to the country’s involvement in World War II.
In the past few weeks, Olaf Scholz has refused to send weapons to Ukraine, repeatedly referring to the policy.
The “Dutch government said in a letter to parliament that it will supply 200 air defense rockets to Ukraine as quickly as possible,” reported Daily Mail.
The U.S. is also sending an additional $350 million worth of weapons to Ukraine that will include anti-armor, small arms, body armor and various munitions.
Other countries have also vowed to send supplies and weapons to the country. Belgium promised 2,000 machine guns and 3,800 tons of fuel.