German Chancellor Olaf Scholz Plans to Resume Talks with Russian President Putin

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his intention to hold discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin “in due course,” signaling a potential thaw in relations following a significant breakdown since the Ukraine war. In an interview with the Koelner Stadt-Anzeiger newspaper, Scholz acknowledged that it had been some time since their last telephone conversation but stated his plans to engage with Putin again.

Tensions and Recent History

The leaders’ most recent telephone conversation took place in early December, during which Scholz urged Putin to withdraw Russian troops from Ukraine. In response, Putin accused the West of pursuing “destructive” policies. Since then, relations between Moscow and Berlin have deteriorated further, notably due to Germany’s decision in January to permit the export of German-made heavy battle tanks to Ukraine.

Scholz’s Stance on Ukraine

Scholz reiterated his commitment to actively support Ukraine while simultaneously working to prevent a direct conflict between NATO and Russia. He emphasized the importance of coordination with friends and allies in addressing the situation. When asked about the potential for ending the conflict through negotiations, Scholz emphasized that a fair peace was the goal and that it could not be achieved by establishing a new “border” between Russia and Ukraine along the current front line. He stressed the necessity of Russian troop withdrawal as a prerequisite for a just resolution.

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Impact on Germany and Evolving Stance

The invasion of Ukraine and Moscow’s subsequent reduction of gas supplies to Europe profoundly affected Germany, which heavily relied on affordable Russian energy for its economy. As a result, Germany’s traditionally pacifist stance has shifted, and the country has provided significant military support to Ukraine in its battle against Russia. This change in policy reflects the seriousness of the conflict and Germany’s commitment to assisting Ukraine.