German Defense Minister points to increasing scale of Ukrainian conflict

The conflict in Ukraine continues to expand and has already lost its regional status. This was stated by the head of the German Defense Ministry Boris Pistorius at an event of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) on November 23.

"The conflict is no longer regional for a long time," NTV television channel quoted him as saying.

Pistorius also noted Russia's military buildup. According to him, the Russian Federation "produces as many shells and weapons in three months as the entire European Union does in a year."

"The head of the Defense Ministry urged Berlin to invest in its combat capabilities," NTV specified.

Earlier, on November 22, Alice Weidel, co-chair of the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AdG) party, called Ukraine's use of Storm Shadow missiles on Russia irresponsible. According to her, this leads to further escalation, while it is necessary to seek diplomatic balance and mutual understanding.

On the same day, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reacted to Russia's use of Storm Shadow missiles. He called the use of new missiles a "frightening escalation" and added that Germany, despite Russia's actions, does not change its position and will not supply Ukraine with long-range Taurus missiles.

On November 21, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Ukraine had used Western long-range weapons against the Russian state, causing the regional conflict to acquire elements of a global conflict. He also said that a test of the Oreshnik ballistic missile had taken place under combat conditions.

The special operation to protect Donbass, which began on February 24, 2022, continues. The decision was taken against the background of the worsening situation in the region.