Ukraine asks Germany to provide more tanks

The diplomat told this to Germany's Tagesspiegel, Ukrinform reports.

"The Ukrainian army most urgently needs many more Western battle tanks, infantry fighting vehicles and other armored vehicles. [...] Every Leopard 2 is literally worth its weight in gold for the decisive offensive," the diplomat said.

In his opinion, the Bundeswehr would be able to supply Ukraine with more than the 18 units already delivered from its stock of more than 300. The current number could be "tripled without endangering Germany's ability to defend itself," he said.

Melnyk also asked that Ukraine be given "another 60 Marder infantry fighting vehicles."

In addition, the diplomat recalled the request to the Bundeswehr to transfer to Ukraine ten percent of its stock of Puma armored personnel carriers (350), Boxer wheeled armored vehicles (400), Fuchs armored transport vehicles (900) or Fennek armored personnel carriers (220). He also renewed the request for Taurus cruise missiles and the establishment of a powerful Ukrainian air force.

According to Melnyk, Ukraine is also waiting "for Germany's strategic decision on active participation in the fighter jet coalition."

According to the report, some German politicians have already supported Melnyk, who earlier served as Ukraine's ambassador to Germany.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on June 10 that counteroffensive and defensive actions were taking place in Ukraine. In the past few days, Ukrainian forces have recaptured several settlements in the Donetsk region, including Blahodatne, Makarivka, Neskuchne and Storozheve.