German Chancellor Olaf Scholz Reaffirms Support for Ukraine
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has expressed Germany’s unwavering support for Ukraine, asserting that no decisions regarding the Russian-led war will be made without involving Kiev. Addressing the press at Berlin airport before departing for the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Scholz stated, “Ukraine can count on us. This principle prevails and no decision will be taken over Ukraine’s head.”
Scholz Defends Call with Putin
Scholz defended his recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking his first in nearly two years. He emphasized the importance of conveying a clear message that the support Germany, Europe, and many others worldwide have for Ukraine will not diminish. Scholz justified his diplomatic gesture by referencing the promises made by former US President Donald Trump to end the war in Ukraine without providing a clear plan of action.
Ukraine’s Reaction to the Call
The phone call sparked controversy in Kiev, with Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky criticizing Scholz for potentially opening a “Pandora’s box”. However, Scholz reiterated that Ukraine is “legitimately defending its independence and sovereignty” and can count on the support of many allies worldwide, especially Germany, who is Ukraine’s most significant backer in Europe in terms of military aid and arms supplies.
Scholz Talks about Conversation with Putin
The German Chancellor revealed that his conversation with Putin offered little hope of any shift in the Russian president’s stance on the war in Ukraine. “The conversation was very detailed and allowed me to see that the Russian president’s views on the war have changed very little – and that is not good news,” Scholz reported to the press.
Scholz’s Political Future
Despite being weakened by the lack of a parliamentary majority, Scholz confirmed his intention to run for a second term in Germany’s snap elections scheduled for February. However, there are increasing calls within his party for him to step aside in favor of popular defense minister Boris Pistorius.
