Zelensky criticizes Scholz for call with Putin as Ukraine war nears 1,000 days

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for a recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the first in nearly two years. Zelensky warned that this could lead to more unproductive discussions, benefiting Putin's agenda. The call lasted about an hour, with Scholz urging Russia to negotiate for peace while reaffirming Germany's support for Ukraine. This diplomatic engagement comes as the war approaches its 1,000th day, following Russia's invasion in February 2022. Zelensky expressed confidence that the war could end sooner with Donald Trump as U.S. president, following a constructive conversation with him. Meanwhile, the Kremlin indicated readiness for energy deals with Germany, highlighting ongoing gas transit through Ukraine.