France welcomes German decision to send Leopard tanks to Ukraine

By Nur Asena Erturk

ANKARA (AA) – France on Wednesday hailed the German decision to send Leopard tanks from its military stocks to Ukraine.

Germany will deliver 14 Leopard 2A6 battle tanks to Kyiv, train Ukrainian troops to use the tanks, and also provide licenses to other European countries that wish to supply Leopards from their own stock.

"France welcomes the German decision, which amplifies the support we have provided with the delivery of the AMX10 RC," the Elysee said in a statement quoted by local media, referring to a France-made lighter combat vehicle.

Paris announced on Jan. 4 that it will deliver these light tanks to Ukraine, but has not yet decided whether to send its heavy Leclerc tanks – a type of vehicle comparable to German Leopards.

The move is a major policy reversal by Germany, which is often criticized for being hesitant about sending heavy weapons to Ukraine, fearing it could escalate the conflict with Russia that started last February.

The decision was made in close consultation with ally countries, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said.

Meanwhile, the US will also send 31 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, President Joe Biden announced.