
On Thursday the Bundestag voted by a clear majority for sending heavy weapons to Ukraine's aid.
In the end the Opposition of the CDU/CSU Union and the ruling coalition parties, the SPD, the Greens and the FDP ended the dispute over sending heavy weapons to Ukraine and voted together for their surrender. Result: 586 pro votes, 100 against, 7 abstentions. The Left and AfD parliamentary groups refused.
In a statement released in Berlin on Wednesday by the leaders of parliamentary groups it is said to be a signal of responsibility for Ukraine and determination against Russia's aggression.
Germany stands firm on Ukraine's side in its struggle for freedom, German parliamentarians stress. Support for Ukraine's right to self-defence is important for protecting peace and freedom in Europe and also for seeking a diplomatic solution.
Regarding the delivery of weapons it is said that "in accordance with the United Nations Charter Germany sends weapons for its own protection to Ukraine and approves the shipment from third states." This also applies to sending heavy weapons into deals with NATO partners.
Just a few days ago Germany made a second u-turn in its policy towards Ukraine by deciding to send heavy weapons. At the meeting of NATO country defence ministers at the U.S. base in Ramstein, German Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht had disclosed the delivery of anti-aircraft tanks. stressing that "our assistance has been coordinated with other NATO partners".