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 talks, 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. The war, ongoing since Russia's invasion in February 2022, is nearing its 1,000th day. Zelensky expressed confidence that the war could end sooner with Donald Trump as U.S. president, following a constructive conversation with him. Meanwhile, Russia indicated a willingness to discuss energy deals with Germany, highlighting its ongoing gas transit through Ukraine.