On Tuesday, January 25, 2023, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced that his country would send ‘Leopard 2’ tanks to Ukraine, just as US President Joe Biden announced plans to send 31 ‘Abrams’ tanks to Ukraine. He had always refused the request of the Kiev government.
Previously, Germany had been pressured by NATO members for weeks to decide to send tanks to Ukraine. While the Berlin government is firm that they will only send Leopard 2s to Ukraine if the US decides to send Abrams tanks to Ukraine first. Leaders of the United States, Germany and European allies discussed leading up to the latest announcement.
Germany and the US decided to supply tanks to Ukraine. It also comes as Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky prepares for a new major Russian invasion. which is expected to happen this spring
Biden said at a press conference that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin recommended the delivery of Abrams tanks to Ukraine. because it will strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend its own territory and achieve strategic goals
However, Biden also said that Even though the Abrams is the most capable tank in the world. But it is very complex to operate and maintain. The US will provide Ukraine with the necessary parts and equipment. and train Ukrainian troops in support, transportation and maintenance as soon as possible.
A senior official in the US government Told CNN that getting Abrams to Ukraine would take months. with procurement, production and delivery, making it expectedLeopard Tank 2 from Germany will be sent first In the meantime, the US will start training for the use and maintenance of the tank for Ukrainian officials.
Germany is preparing to deliver 14 Leopard 2 tanks from its army depot to Ukraine. It also allows other countries to export Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. While the training of Ukrainian officers will begin rapidly in Germany. In addition, they will assist with transportation, ammunition. and maintenance of the system as well
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius expects the Leopard 2 could be operational in Ukraine within three months.
