Germany could be forced to abandon plans for Taurus missiles in Ukraine without UK backing

might require "UK leadership" in order to get the support required to deliver crucial missiles to the Ukrainian frontline. The country is set to welcome in its next month, made up of Chancellor in waiting 's Christan Democratic Union (CDU) party and the centre-left Social Democrats (SDP).

But has hampered attempts to provide Ukraine with as the Kyiv's stocks of crucial ammunition begin to dwindle. Roderich Kiesewetter, a senior MP in the CDU has suggested that endorsement from the British could prove crucial in breaking the impasse and ensuring that the long-range missile falls into Ukrainian hands. He said: "The Taurus delivery remains a point of contention for the time being ... I do not yet see any consensus here, especially as the parties have not agreed on the key security policy issues in the coalition agreement.

"I don't yet see the Taurus being delivered. Any influence by UK leadership to finally convince Germany to deliver Taurus might help and is highly welcomed."

Earlier this week, Mr Merz suggested in an interview that the authorisation for the missiles to be provided would only be given once the British and French confirmed they were in agreement with the delivery.

He said: "Our European partners are already supplying cruise missiles.

"The British are doing it, the French are doing it, and the Americans are doing it anyway, this must be jointly agreed. And if it's agreed, then Germany should take part."

His comments were followed by claims by the SDP that there were also "many good arguments" against sending the missiles, heightening fears that Ukraine could be forced to go without.

Merz's cautious predecessor has continually refused to provide the Ukrainians with the vital kit, fearing that to do so could bring and Russia into direct conflict.

Taurus missiles have a longer range than the British supplied and would be warmly welcomed by Kyiv, providing them with an ability in theory to hit Moscow.

Commentators have interpreted Mr Merz's comments as a sign that his administration will take a more robust stance on Russia compared to the government of Mr Scholz.

Mr Kiesewetter believes that Mr Scholz's caution in not sending the missiles served only to embolden Putin as he expressed his hope that the country's stance on Moscow would now become firmer.

He added: "The delay and blockade of the delivery of this far-reaching system by chancellor Scholz was a major mistake and a de facto failure to provide assistance, which has weakened European security and led to more victims in Ukraine."