‘The clock is ticking’: Germany says Russia must respond to ceasefire offer by end day or face sanctions

The Guardian reports” If Moscow does not accept the demand for ceasefire, “preparations will be set in motion” for fresh sanctions, government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius said, after European leaders demanded during a weekend visit to Kyiv that Russia agree to the ceasefire.

The ceasefire, unconditional, for 30 days must be observed by Russia by end of today, Monday 12 May 2025.

It is now the German Government threatening Russia, with sanctions, with military support of Ukraine.

It may be relevant to note that at the same time, the EU is preparing its 17th sanction package against Russia.

In the past, it was experienced that Russia did not consider any ultimatum or threat of sanctions. It may be interesting if Russia this time would be impressed by new European sanctions or additional German military support.

Will Germany send the Taurus, a long range missile, to Ukraine? The Taurus was criticized as it is said that it needs German soldiers on the ground to handle and program the missile, which would mean a direct involvement of Germany in the war, waging war against Russia on the 80th anniversary of the German defeat against Russia.

This may mean that Germany, unprovoked and without justification under the UN Charter, would be aggressing Russia. If Germany launches a Taurus missile on Russia, there are reasons to believe that this is a breach of the UN Charter. Self-defence according to art. 51 of the Chater is allowed. All other aggression is subject to the UN Security Council’s approval.

It is disputed that an active support of a belligerent country, even if it is a victim of an aggression, is allowed without approval of the UN Security Council. The limits of support or becoming a party to the war are fluent. Firing a Taurus with German hands is certainly an act of aggression by Germany. Russia said it would retaliate.