Scholz and Putin hold first call in nearly two years to discuss Ukraine

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, marking their first conversation in nearly two years. Scholz urged Putin to negotiate with Ukraine and withdraw troops, while Putin insisted any peace deal must recognize Russia's territorial claims. The call comes amid speculation about the impact of President-elect Donald Trump's administration on Ukraine. Scholz faces political challenges at home, including a confidence vote next month, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the call as potentially harmful to Ukraine's position. Putin reiterated Russia's conditions for peace, including Ukraine's renouncement of NATO membership. Both leaders acknowledged the significant deterioration in Germany-Russia relations and agreed to maintain communication following the call.