Sir, – Following Russia’s recent missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian civilian targets, Daniel McLaughlin reports that Germany is to supply Kyiv with four modern medium range IRIS-T SLM air defence systems (“Ukraine pushes for air defence systems”, World, October 11th).
However, as long ago as June 1st, Chancellor Olaf Scholz informed the Bundestag that these same systems would be supplied to Ukraine. The saga of the IRIS-T air defence system is just the latest example of Germany dragging its feet when it comes to supporting Ukrainian resistance to Russian aggression. Chancellor Scholz is still blocking the transfer of restored ex-Bundeswehr Marder infantry fighting vehicles to Ukraine even though other Nato countries have sent similar vehicles months ago. He has repeatedly failed to give even one rational reason as to why his government is treating Ukraine in such a mean-spirited manner. – Yours, etc,
KARL MARTIN,
Bayside,
Dublin 13.