Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has claimed that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz ordered efforts to conceal Berlin’s role in supplying Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine.

According to the agency, factory markings are being removed from the munitions, while certain components are replaced to make tracing their origin more difficult.

SVR also pointed out that Merz’s sharp anti-Russian rhetoric has drawn criticism among European analysts, particularly given the ongoing talks between Moscow and Washington on possible steps toward resolving the conflict.

The Taurus missile is a long-range, precision-guided weapon developed by the German company Taurus Systems GmbH. Designed for both stationary and mobile targets, it is regarded as one of the most effective air-launched strike systems in service. Its defining feature is its extended reach: depending on the modification, Taurus can strike targets located several hundred kilometers from the carrier aircraft. The missile is equipped with multiple guidance systems, including inertial navigation, satellite positioning, and its own radar seeker.