German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in a significant phone call on November 15, marking their first direct conversation in nearly two years. While the hour-long discussion provided a platform for both leaders to present their positions on the ongoing Ukraine conflict, it revealed little progress in bridging their divergent perspectives. The exchange comes at a critical juncture for Europe and global diplomacy, with escalating tensions and calls for renewed dialogue shaping international responses.

The conversation, held just ahead of the G20 summit in Brazil, was a rare instance of direct communication between the leaders of two of Europe’s most influential countries. Scholz, speaking at a press conference in Rio de Janeiro on November 17, described the discussion as “very detailed” but noted that it underscored a lack of movement in Moscow’s stance on Ukraine. “That’s not good news,” Scholz admitted, reflecting a broader frustration among Western leaders over the Kremlin’s unwavering position.

The German chancellor emphasized that the call served as an opportunity to reiterate Germany’s steadfast support for Ukraine. He conveyed a clear message to Putin: Western commitment to Kyiv remains resolute. Scholz stated, “It was important to tell him that he cannot count on support [for Ukraine] from Germany, Europe, and many others in the world waning.”

Scholz defended his decision to engage with Putin, countering criticism that dialogue with Moscow might weaken Western unity. Some factions within Germany argue against negotiations, but Scholz dismissed this perspective. “There are those in Germany who consider the lack of negotiations with Putin a........

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