Scholz speaks with Putin for first time in nearly two years as Germany prepares for election
cnn.com —
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, marking their first conversation in nearly two years. Scholz urged Putin to withdraw troops from Ukraine and engage in peace talks, as Germany prepares for a snap election. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the call, stating it undermines efforts to isolate Russia. He argued that such discussions do not contribute to achieving peace and allow Russia to maintain its current policies. The Kremlin indicated that any peace agreement must consider Russian security interests. Scholz plans to brief allies and partners on the call's outcome, as Ukraine faces challenges on the frontlines amid ongoing Russian advances.