According to RT, the statement was made in the context of speculation that Germany is considering transferring Taurus missiles to Kiev.
Chairman of the Russian National Defense Duma, Andrey Kartapolov, stressed that the operation of Taurus missiles requires direct support from German military experts. He said Ukraine was unable to operate this complex weapon on its own due to a lack of technical-skills.
Ukrainians can press the warming button, but cannot enter data, because this data comes from US and Western European satellites, he explained.
If Germany transfers Taurus missiles to Ukraine, it would mean German experts would be present in the field to ensure the proper use of weapons, Kartapolov said.
We are ready to shoot down Taurus missiles, attack where they are launched, who operates them and if necessary, where they are transferred, he stressed.
Mr. Kartapolov's statement was made not long after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz mentioned the possibility of supplying this type of missile to Kiev. Speaking to the press, Mr. Merz said the transfer was possible, but noted that Ukrainian soldiers would need a few months of training to use weapons.
The Taurus missile has a long range, capable of hitting targets deep in Russian territory, including the capital Moscow. The consideration of providing this type of weapon raises concerns about the possibility of escalation in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
The German Defense Ministry announced on the same day that it would provide an additional $5.6 billion in aid to Kiev, much of which was used to support the production of long-range weapons systems in Ukraine.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reacted strongly to the German move, saying that " Berlin's direct involvement in the conflict is now clear".
