A majority of Germans oppose sending cruise missiles to Ukraine’s military to push back against Russia, a poll reveals.

The survey, carried out on behalf of the public television network ARD, indicated that 52% of Germans think it is a bad idea to deliver Taurus long-range cruise missiles to Ukraine. Only 36% support the move, while 12% are undecided.

Residents of eastern Germany, formerly GDR, are overwhelmingly against the idea: 70% of those living in eastern states said no. In West Germany, the former East Germany, 47% were against, 40% in favor.

Among voters of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, 76% opposed the supply of this weapon system to Ukraine. In contrast, 68% of those who said they were Green voters favored surrendering the cruise missiles.

The Ukrainian government has long been asking Germany to supply it with Taurus missiles. However, Chancellor Olaf Solz is said to be hesitant.

Germany’s government has long been criticized for being slow to send military equipment to Ukraine after Russia invaded Ukrainian territory in February 2022, but it now plays a central role in supplying Kiev’s forces with weapons and ammunition, including tanks in particular. and air defense systems.

The poll was conducted on Tuesday and Wednesday, by telephone and online, among a sample of 1,216 citizens.