BERLIN: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz urges Putin in a rare call on Friday to start talks with Ukraine. Scholz emphasized that negotiations should lead to a “just and lasting peace,” according to reports. #ScholzUrgesPutin
During their one-hour conversation, their first in nearly two years, Scholz also demanded that Russia withdraw its troops from Ukraine. Additionally, he reaffirmed Germany’s unwavering support for Ukraine, a spokesperson from the German government mentioned.
The phone call occurred as Ukraine endures increasingly harsh battlefield conditions. Shortages of weapons and personnel are compounding Ukraine’s difficulties, while Russian forces continue to make steady progress.
“The Chancellor urged Russia to show willingness to enter talks with Ukraine with the aim of achieving a just and lasting peace,” the spokesperson said in a statement.
“He stressed Germany’s unbroken determination to back Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression for as long as necessary,” the spokesperson added.
Scholz spoke with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky before his call with Putin and will brief him on the outcome afterward, the spokesperson confirmed.
Germany remains Ukraine’s biggest financial backer and second-largest weapons supplier, following the United States. However, support for Kyiv’s future appears uncertain after Donald Trump’s presidential election win.
Trump has criticized the extent of Western aid to Ukraine, claiming he can swiftly end the war, though he has not provided details. Scholz and Putin last talked in December 2022, ten months after Russia’s invasion, straining ties with the West.
Scholz, currently Germany’s least popular chancellor, faces a national election on Feb. 23. His Social Democrats face challenges from left-wing and far-right parties critical of Germany’s support for Ukraine. #ScholzUrgesPutin
Meanwhile, Scholz urges Putin while Ukraine battles harsh conditions on the front lines. Russian forces continue to make advances, and Ukraine struggles with limited arms and personnel. Still, Scholz believes that opening talks could provide a breakthrough. The German government remains steadfast in its support.
