Poland has officially asked Germany for permission to export a host of Leopard 2 battle tanks to Ukraine, in a move which raises pressure on Berlin.

The German government told the BBC it had received the request to export 14 German-made tanks on Tuesday.

But it has insisted the final decision lies with Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

Ukraine sees the tanks as vital for breaking through Russian lines and to beat an anticipated counter offensive.

The Leopard 2 tanks were specifically designed to compete with the Russian T-90 tanks, which are being used in the invasion.

But export laws mean any country that wishes to send the tanks require Berlin's permission.

Poland's prime minister Masteusz Morawiecki said he hoped Germany would quickly respond to the request, and accused Germany