Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly criticized German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Friday for engaging in a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking the first direct contact between the leaders in almost two years. Zelensky argued that this contact served to benefit Putin amid ongoing hostilities between Ukraine and Russia.
During the call, Scholz condemned Russia’s “war of aggression” against Ukraine and urged Putin to cease hostilities and withdraw troops. According to Scholz’s spokesman, Steffen Hebestreit, the German Chancellor also called for Russia to demonstrate a willingness to negotiate a “just and lasting peace.”
The Kremlin confirmed the call, stating that it took place at Germany’s invitation, and described it as a “detailed and frank exchange” regarding the situation in Ukraine. Putin emphasized that any resolution should factor in Russia’s security interests and address the new territorial realities stemming from the conflict.
Zelensky reacted strongly to Germany rekindling communication with Moscow, suggesting that the call has opened a “Pandora’s Box.” He asserted that this approach is what Putin has long sought, as it could potentially weaken Russia’s isolation on the international stage.
In the context of the ongoing conflict, Zelensky also expressed his belief that the situation might improve once Donald Trump assumes the U.S. presidency next year. He stated, “It is certain that the war will end sooner with the policies of the team that will now lead the White House,” referring to Trump’s intentions to engage directly with Putin.
Scholz’s communication with Zelensky prior to and following his conversation with Putin did not assuage Ukrainian concerns. Ukraine’s foreign ministry emphasized the need for decisive actions rather than diplomatic persuasion, which they believe only signals weakness to Russia. Scholz also informed allied nations of the so-called Quad, which includes France, the United States, and Britain regarding his discussion with Putin.
During the hour-long call, Scholz specifically condemned the Russian air strikes targeted at civilian infrastructure in Ukraine and warned that deploying North Korean soldiers in combat roles against Ukraine could escalate the conflict significantly. Both leaders agreed to keep lines of communication open, and Scholz plans to discuss developments further at the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil, from which Putin is notably absent.
As the situation unfolds, Ukraine braces for potentially severe challenges as winter approaches, compounded by significant damage to energy infrastructure from Russian attacks. Germany remains a major military supporter of Ukraine but faces uncertainty regarding continued U.S. assistance under Trump, who has been critical of U.S. involvement in the conflict. Despite this, Zelensky characterized his recent conversation with Trump as “constructive.”
Former Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk shared that Scholz had informed him about the call with Putin, expressing satisfaction with Scholz’s reaffirmation of the Polish stance that any decisions regarding Ukraine must involve Ukrainian input.