German Chancellor Scholz explains why he called Putin
Chancellor Scholz paid a visit to Ukraine. He promised more support for Kiev and also explained why he called Russian President Putin.
A few weeks back, Scholz was widely criticised over his phone call with the Russian leader, including by Ukrainian President Zelensky.
Only the United States gives more support to Ukraine than Germany. Whether that remains the case depends on the position Donald Trump takes once he re-enters the White House. Scholz confirmed in Kiev that Germany will continue to send military equipment through 2025, but remains in favour of a cautious approach in the conflict.
Scholz did not change his mind on two of Zelensky's questions: the deployment of Taurus long-range missiles (German- and Swedish-made) and Ukraine's early accession to NATO.
Scholz defended the conversation he had with Putin: in it, he reminded Putin that Ukraine is a sovereign and independent state that should be able to decide its own future. He also stressed that he had let Putin know that Ukraine is not alone and that its partners will continue to support it.
(HL/Source: AP, Reuters/Illustration picture: DPA picture alliance/dpa | Kay Nietfeld)