Scholz is speaking to Putin after two years, amid heightened tensions from the war in Ukraine

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has broken a two-year silence with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking a potentially significant moment in the context of the war in Ukraine. As Western powers prepare for a possible Trump administration that prioritizes a quick resolution to the conflict, Scholz's phone call underscores Berlin's continued commitment to supporting Ukraine while keeping diplomatic channels open.

The conversation: Main points

The discussion, described as a "detailed and frank exchange of views", lasted an hour and was initiated by Berlin. According to Scholz's spokesman, Steffen Hebestreit, the chancellor condemned Russia's aggression in Ukraine and reiterated Germany's unwavering support for Kiev. Scholz also criticized Russian airstrikes on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine and expressed concern about the presence of North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces.

On the other hand, the Kremlin resumed its well-known narrative, accusing NATO of "aggressive policies" that would have triggered the conflict. Putin has said he is open to resuming negotiations, provided Moscow's security interests are taken into account and the "root causes" of the war are addressed.

Context and timing of the call

The conversation comes at a critical moment, both for the war and for European politics:

• Escalation in Ukraine : Russian forces have stepped up their attacks, making the fastest territorial gains since the start of the war in 2022. With this call, Scholz is trying to put pressure on Putin to stop the aggression and withdraw his troops, stressing that the support Germany for Ukraine is a long-standing one.
• Political changes in the US : The recent elections in the United States, won by Donald Trump, raised uncertainties about the continuation of US military support for Ukraine. Trump has promised a "swift and fair" resolution to the conflict, which could change the dynamics of Western support.
• Germany's domestic political crisis : Scholz is navigating a tumultuous political landscape after recently dissolving his coalition government and preparing for snap elections in February. Polls point to a possible defeat for the Social Democratic Party (SPD), adding pressure on Scholz to demonstrate firm leadership.

Germany's role in supporting Ukraine

Germany remains the second largest provider of military aid to Ukraine after the US, committing almost 30 billion euros since the start of the war. Recently, Berlin pledged an additional €1.4 billion in military aid, in collaboration with Belgium, Denmark and Norway. The package includes advanced Iris-T air defense systems, tanks, drones and artillery ammunition.

However, Scholz refused to deliver the Taurus cruise missiles, citing fears of escalating Germany's involvement in the conflict. This cautious approach reflects growing war-weariness among German voters, which has fueled support for the far-right (AfD) and the leftist Sahra Wagenknecht alliance, which are calling for an immediate end to military support for Ukraine.

Strategic engagement

The resumption of dialogue with Putin aligns with Scholz's broader efforts to organize a new peace conference for Ukraine, continuing last summer's initiative in Switzerland. Although Russia's absence from the previous conference highlighted the gulf between Moscow and Western powers, Scholz remains committed to diplomatic solutions despite criticism for maintaining contact with the Kremlin.

His recent conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky underscores Germany's role as a mediator. Berlin promised to inform NATO and EU partners about the content of the call, strengthening its position as a central player in European security.

The future remains uncertain

The stakes for Scholz and Germany are huge. With Ukraine close to marking 1,000 days of war, Germany's continued support is essential to maintaining Western unity. However, Scholz must balance this commitment with domestic pressures and a changing geopolitical landscape marked by the possible reset of US foreign policy under Trump.

As the war continues, Scholz's willingness to talk to Putin signals an effort to keep diplomatic channels open while Germany continues to support Ukraine militarily. Whether this approach will yield tangible results remains to be seen, but for now, Berlin remains a central pillar in the Western response to the Ukraine crisis.