German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday defended his decision to lift restrictions on the use of German long-range weapons by Ukraine. "Only those who are able to attack military bases on the territory of the attacker can defend themselves,

Friedrich Merz has plunged into diplomatic efforts to try to secure a ceasefire and keep Western support for Ukraine intact since becoming Germany’s leader nearly three weeks ago.

Merz did not mention Taurus cruise missiles in his announcement, casting fresh mystery on the practical implications of the apparent policy shift.