Zelensky believes war with Russia could end sooner under Trump as he criticizes German chancellor's call with Putin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he believes the war with Russia will "end sooner" if Donald Trump becomes president again. He noted the challenging situation on the battlefield and criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin's lack of interest in peace talks. Zelensky expressed that he had a positive conversation with Trump after his election victory but did not provide details on any negotiations. He emphasized that he would only engage directly with Trump, not through intermediaries. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke with Putin for the first time in nearly two years, urging him to withdraw troops from Ukraine. Zelensky criticized this call, saying it could weaken efforts to isolate Putin as Ukraine faces increasing difficulties on the frontlines.