Berlin: Germany has vehemently accused Russia of orchestrating an “information war” following the leak of sensitive military discussions concerning the ongoing Ukraine conflict last week.
In one of the first official responses to the incident, Germany’s Defence Minister Boris Pistorius asserted, “The gravity of this incident extends far beyond the mere interception and dissemination of a conversation… It is a calculated move within the broader information war that Putin is actively waging.”
The controversy erupted when Margarita Simonyan, the head of Russia’s state-backed RT channel, released a 38-minute audio recording purportedly capturing a conversation among German officials strategizing potential strikes on Crimea on February 19.
In response to Germany’s allegations of eavesdropping, Russia has demanded “an explanation” from German authorities.
‘Investigating the Matter with Urgency’
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, during a visit to Rome on Saturday, pledged a comprehensive investigation into the affair. “The gravity of what has transpired demands a thorough and expeditious inquiry,” Scholz emphasized.
What Revelations Does the Recording Hold?
The leaked recording offers insights into discussions among officials regarding the prospective deployment of German-made Taurus missiles by Ukrainian forces.
Among the topics deliberated were strategic targets, including a critical bridge over the Kerch Strait, which connects the Russian mainland to Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014.
Expert analysis cited by Der Spiegel magazine supports the authenticity of the leaked recording.
Why the Urgency for Taurus Missiles?
Kyiv has persistently urged Germany to provide Taurus missiles, prized for their capability to target locations up to 500 kilometers (approximately 300 miles) away.
However, Scholz has been reticent to approve the missile supply, expressing apprehensions about escalating the conflict further.
As the Ukraine conflict enters its third year, Kyiv’s appeals for heightened military support from its allies have grown increasingly urgent.
