Zelensky Says Scholz Call With Putin Undermines Ukraine’s Efforts For Peace

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has openly criticized German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for engaging in direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The phone call, the first between the two leaders in over two years, has been condemned by Kiev as a setback to isolating Moscow and securing a just resolution to the war.

Zelensky described the call as a dangerous precedent. “Olaf’s call, in my opinion, is a Pandora’s box,” Zelensky said. “This is exactly what Putin has long wanted: to weaken his isolation and conduct ordinary negotiations that will not end in anything.”

Scholz reportedly urged Putin to withdraw Russian troops and begin peace negotiations with Ukraine, but Zelensky remains skeptical of Moscow’s intentions. He accused Russia of using past negotiations to entrench its policies and warned that further talks could embolden the Kremlin without yielding meaningful results.

Ukraine has demanded strong security guarantees as a precondition for any ceasefire, arguing that such measures are essential to prevent future Russian aggression. Zelensky highlighted Berlin’s role as a vital ally but voiced frustration over Germany’s reluctance to send long-range missiles, which Kiev sees as critical to its defense.

The Kremlin described the hour-long conversation as “extremely positive,” with Putin emphasizing the need for any agreement to reflect “new territorial realities” and Russia’s security concerns. Ukraine, however, has refused to make territorial concessions or abandon its aspirations for NATO membership.

Scholz’s outreach underscores growing divisions within the international response to the conflict. Zelensky has cautioned Western leaders against actions that might weaken the united front against Russia, stressing the importance of isolating Moscow diplomatically and economically.

As the war continues, Ukraine insists that peace cannot come at the cost of its sovereignty or territorial integrity. Scholz’s call highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing diplomatic efforts with the need to hold Russia accountable for its actions.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR