German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has disclosed the details of his phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, noting that there was no apparent shift in the Kremlin’s position on the Ukraine conflict.
The hour-long conversation on Friday was the first direct communication between the leaders of Europe’s two most powerful countries in almost two years.
“The conversation was very detailed but contributed to a recognition that little has changed in the Russian president’s views of the war – and that’s not good news,” Scholz told reporters at a press conference in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, where he is attending the G20 summit.
Scholz said he used the opportunity to underscore Germany’s continued commitment to supporting Ukraine, along with its Western partners.
The chancellor also expressed his belief in the importance of dialogue with Moscow, despite the complexities involved. “It was important to tell him [Putin] that he cannot count on support [for Kiev] from Germany, Europe, and many others in the world waning,” he said.
He dismissed criticism that his outreach could undermine Western unity, arguing that diplomatic channels should remain open. “There are those in Germany who consider the lack of negotiations with Putin a good idea, but I am not one of them,” he stated.
Scholz indicated that further talks with Putin are on the agenda, highlighting his intent to continue exploring diplomatic avenues. “Soon I will talk to the president of Russia again,” the chancellor said, stressing that communication between key leaders is essential.
He added, “In my view, it would not be a good idea if there were talks between the American and Russian presidents and the leader of an important European country was not also doing so.”
Scholz urged Putin to engage in negotiations with Kiev to achieve a lasting peace and to withdraw Russian troops from what Berlin recognizes as Ukrainian territory.
Friday’s call came amid increased contact between Western-aligned leaders and Moscow, with various diplomatic efforts apparently underway.
A number of officials in Berlin have stated that they believe dialogue with Russia remains crucial, while the Kremlin has consistently indicated a willingness to engage in talks, saying that Ukraine is blocking negotiations.