Germany defiant that ‘lockstep’ with US on weapons is the best for Ukraine

Olaf Scholz was criticised for being slow to supply tanks but working with allies keeps chancellor's public on side

Germany's government is defiant, maintaining that its lockstep approach to weapons deliveries is the best way to support Ukraine, and the only way it can do so while keeping its domestic public on side. Allies of Chancellor Olaf Scholz accuse his critics of being dedicated" to making him a scapegoat.

The German leader faced mounting criticism last week from international and domestic partners over the protracted decision to supply Ukraine with Leopard 2 battle tanks, which are made in Germany and required authorisation by Berlin for re-export from other countries.