German Chancellor’s call to Putin sparks controversy as Ukraine warns of “Pandora’s box”.
At a Glance
- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time in two years
- Scholz urged Putin to end the war and withdraw troops from Ukraine
- The call faced criticism from Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy, who fears it could weaken Putin’s isolation
- Germany’s government is facing collapse, with snap elections expected in early 2025
- Scholz reaffirmed Germany’s support for Ukraine, stating no decisions would be made without Kyiv’s involvement
Scholz’s Unexpected Call to Putin
In a surprising turn of events, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reached out to Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time in two years. The hour-long call, which took place just before the G20 summit in Brazil, saw Scholz condemning the war and urging negotiations. This diplomatic move comes at a critical time, as Germany’s coalition government faces collapse and right-wing parties lead in polls for the upcoming election.
The timing of the call is particularly noteworthy, given that Putin has an international arrest warrant, preventing his attendance at the G20 summit. Scholz’s initiative marks a significant shift in Western leaders’ approach, as direct communication with Russia has become increasingly rare since the invasion of Ukraine.
I spoke to President Putin on the phone and called on him to end the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and to withdraw his troops. Russia must show willingness to negotiate with Ukraine – with the aim of achieving a just and lasting peace. pic.twitter.com/zsfdgfeOfN
— Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@Bundeskanzler) November 15, 2024
Ukraine’s Concerns and International Reactions
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy swiftly criticized the call, saying it could potentially dilute Putin’s isolation on the international stage. Zelenskyy referred to the conversation as opening a “Pandora’s box.”
Despite the criticism, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk supported Scholz’s condemnation of Russian aggression but noted the importance of involving Ukraine in any discussions about the conflict’s resolution. This stance aligns with Scholz’s repeated assurances that no decisions would be made without Kyiv’s involvement.
Chancellor Scholz told me that he planned to call Putin. His call, in my opinion, opens Pandora's Box. There may now be other conversations and phone calls. Just a lot of words.
And this is exactly what Putin has long sought. It is critical for him to weaken his isolation, as… pic.twitter.com/zcTydmnxsM
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 15, 2024
Germany’s Stance and Future Diplomatic Efforts
Chancellor Scholz has advocated for a second peace conference on Ukraine that would include Russia; it would follow an initial summit in Switzerland without Kremlin participation. This aligns with his efforts to balance Germany’s significant military aid to Ukraine with attempts to prevent further escalation.
“The Federal Chancellor urged Russia to be prepared to negotiate with Ukraine with the aim of achieving a just and lasting peace,” a German government spokesperson said.
Scholz’s approach, which has earned him the nickname “peace chancellor” among members of his SPD party, reflects Germany’s complex position in the conflict. While providing substantial support to Ukraine, Scholz is also attempting to maintain diplomatic channels with Russia, a strategy that has drawn both praise and criticism.
As Germany faces potential political upheaval with snap elections looming in early 2025, Scholz’s diplomatic maneuvers take on added significance. Despite internal calls for him to step aside, Scholz intends to run for a second term, positioning himself as a leader capable of navigating complex international crises.
