What Russia and Ukraine Want from a Second Trump Presidency
New YorkerNov 17
Germany's Scholz Holds First Call With Putin in Nearly Two Years
Above: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (R) is seen in his office at the Federal Chancellery during a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Nov. 15, 2024. Image copyright: Steffen Kugler/German Government Press Office via Getty Images
The Facts
The leaders of Germany and Russia held their first phone call in nearly two years on Friday, both governments confirmed the same day.
According to reports, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Russian Pres. Vladimir Putin spoke for roughly an hour. A German government spokesperson said Scholz urged Putin "to show willingness to enter talks with Ukraine with the aim of achieving a just and lasting peace."
The Spin
Pro-Ukraine narrative
Putin has no interest in ending Russia's invasion of Ukraine, he simply wants to end his global isolation. This call opened up Pandora's box and gave Putin exactly what he wanted.
Pro-establishment narrative
With Germany facing a snap election and Scholz's party facing criticism over its handling of the Russia-Ukraine war, this call was likely intended to placate a domestic audience rather than come to an actual agreement with Putin.
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