James Snell

Germany – and Nato – should be ashamed of its grudging support for Ukraine

Olaf Scholz (Credit: Getty images)

At long, long last, it might seem that things are coming to a head. After a year of phony excuses, ridiculous claims and constant back-peddling, some of Nato’s bigger nations are planning to give Ukraine some fairly modern main battle tanks. Not very many. And not exactly soon. But I suppose it’s the thought that counts. 

Events are moving chaotically, and fast. But as things stand, the United States is mulling the delivery of 30-50 Abrams tanks – America’s primary workhorse. Germany has implied that it will, at some point in the future, supply a handful of Leopard tanks. As has Poland – no doubt a larger number.

Norway will give up to eight of its Leopard variant to Ukraine. The Netherlands might potentially send up to 18 of its Leopards, although a decision has not yet been made. Sweden, not yet in Nato, is considering sending some of its licensed Leopard tanks copies to Ukraine. 

No word yet on France’s Leclerc main battle tanks, which were also theoretically in the mix.

Written by
James Snell

James Snell is a senior advisor for special initiatives at the New Lines Institute for Strategy and Policy. His upcoming book, Defeat, about the failure of the war in Afghanistan and the future of terrorism, will be published by Gibson Square next year.

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