Former Lithuanian foreign minister tweets sarcastic reminder that Ukraine was promised Taurus missiles and anti-Russian sanctions
Following Russia's latest massive missile attack on Ukraine, former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis has tweeted a sarcastic reminder of the new German chancellor's as-yet-unfulfilled promise to supply Taurus missiles to Ukraine and the pledge by Western countries to impose crippling sanctions on Russia.
Source: Landsbergis on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda
Details: Landsbergis is known for his outspoken criticism of Russian aggression against Ukraine, and he didn't hold back. He posted the message on Sunday after a night of extensive Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian cities and villages.
"Hello, sorry to disturb you, but have you heard anything about Taurus and those crippling sanctions? Let me know, thanks," Landsbergis said.
Background:
Before taking office, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz had criticised his predecessor Olaf Scholz for refusing to supply Ukraine with Taurus missiles. He even proposed an ultimatum to Vladimir Putin, stating that if Putin did not cease attacks on Ukraine within 24 hours, Kyiv would receive the missiles.
After assuming office, Merz altered his stance, stating that any decision on missiles would be made in coordination with allies. He also indicated that he preferred not to discuss specific weapons systems for Ukraine publicly.
On 10 May, during a visit to Kyiv, the leaders of France, the UK, Poland and Germany demanded that Russia halt its attacks for an extended period from 12 May, threatening massive sanctions if it failed to comply.
But the world's attention then shifted to the peace talks in Istanbul, which yielded no significant outcomes, and the European leaders made no further mention of their ultimatum.
The US Senate frequently threatens devastating sanctions against Russia for rejecting peace, but no substantial new restrictions have been implemented.
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