German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has held his first phone conversation in nearly two years with Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to Sueddeutsche Zeitung, the details of the dialogue have not yet been disclosed. However, it is known that the discussion focused on the war in Ukraine and potential paths toward its resolution.
In a statement from the German government, Scholz urged Russia to be ready for peace talks aimed at achieving a fair and lasting settlement. At the same time, the Chancellor reaffirmed Germany’s unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine for as long as necessary.
“The Federal Chancellor called on Russia to engage in negotiations to secure a just peace and confirmed Germany’s steadfast determination to support Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression,” the statement reads.
Ukraine’s Position: “The Call Eases Putin’s Isolation”
Before the conversation with Putin, Scholz consulted with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. However, as Reuters reports, citing sources within the Ukrainian Presidential Office, Zelensky expressed concerns about this initiative.
The Ukrainian leader warned the German Chancellor that such conversations would only bolster the Kremlin’s position by allowing it to maintain the illusion of normalcy and reduce its international isolation.
“Putin will merely repeat his old false narratives, creating the appearance of progress he needs to prolong the war,” one source stated.
Zelensky emphasized that Russia aims to use any negotiations as a tool to secure a pause in the conflict rather than engage in a genuine peace process.
Zelensky: “A Pandora’s Box” and the Risk of a “New Minsk”
Volodymyr Zelensky directly called Scholz’s outreach “opening a Pandora’s box.” According to him, this step might lead to further conversations and contacts with the Kremlin, something Moscow has long sought.
“This is exactly what Putin wants: to weaken Russia’s isolation and return to routine negotiations that achieve nothing, as he has done for decades,” Zelensky stressed.
At the same time, the Ukrainian President reiterated that there would be no “Minsk-3” and emphasized the need for real peace rather than compromises that empower the aggressor.
International Support for Ukraine Remains Key
Despite differing opinions on Scholz’s phone call, Germany continues to stand by Ukraine. Prior to the conversation, the Chancellor discussed the situation with Zelensky, and another call with the Ukrainian President is scheduled soon.
This episode highlights the complexity of the diplomatic battle in which Ukraine fights not only for its interests but also for the principles of international law and justice.
Also Read
For more insights on why Russia avoids genuine negotiations and the potential consequences for the international community, read our article: Mykhailo Podolyak: Russia is Not Ready for Peace Talks While the World Clings to Illusions About Its Intentions.