German Chancellor Olaf Scholz engaged in a significant conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking the first publicly announced discussion between Putin and a major Western leader in nearly two years. During the hour-long call, Scholz urged Putin to consider negotiations with Ukraine to achieve a just and lasting peace. In response, Putin emphasized Russia's territorial gains and security demands, including Kyiv renouncing NATO membership.
Scholz also pressed Putin to withdraw Russian troops and end the full-scale invasion that began in February 2022. The conflict, set to reach its 1,000th day next week, has prompted exiled Russian opposition figures to organize an antiwar rally in Berlin.
The call between Scholz and Putin comes amidst speculation about the implications of the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump for Ukraine. Scholz, facing a political crisis at home, has called for a vote of confidence and a potential early election.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized Scholz's conversation with Putin, expressing concerns that it could inadvertently benefit Russia by weakening its isolation. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of not engaging in negotiations that would lead to no tangible outcomes.
During the call, Scholz condemned Russian air raids on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure and warned against the deployment of North Korean troops to support Russia in the conflict, which would signify a serious escalation. The Kremlin stated that Germany initiated the call, and both leaders had a detailed exchange on the situation in Ukraine.
Putin attributed the crisis to NATO's aggressive policies and emphasized Russia's openness to peace talks, outlining conditions that included Kyiv renouncing NATO aspirations and withdrawing troops from annexed regions. The leaders also discussed the deteriorating bilateral relations between Germany and Russia, along with the Middle East situation.
While the call featured a frank exchange of opinions, there was no indication of a convergence of views. Both sides agreed to maintain communication following the discussion.
