Olaf Scholz Phones Zelenskyy on the Eve of His Term's End
German Chancellor Scholz phones Ukrainian President Zelenskyy near his presidential tenure's conclusion. - German Chancellor Scholz in conversation with Zelenskyy shortly before his presidential tenure comes to an end.
Here's the lowdown on the chat between the two leaders:
Olaf Scholz and Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a chat a few days back, with a key focus on the need for peace in Ukraine. According to Steffen Hebestreit, Scholz underlined that Zelenskyy's readiness for an unconditional 30-day truce signifies Ukraine's unwavering desire for peace above all else. Hebastreit also mentioned that Scholz didn't mince words when it came to Putin, urging him to put an end to his scheming delay tactics and curb the brutal aggression.
During the conversation, Scholz expressed gratitude for the close and trusting bond shared with Zelenskyy and commended his leadership. He also highlighted the bravery and resilience displayed by Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian people amidst the Russian onslaught. Hebastreit pointed out that Scholz had witnessed this spirit firsthand during his visits to Kyiv during the war in June 2022 and December 2024.
Scholz also made a promise—Germany will stand by Zelenskyy, in conjunction with European and international partners, for as long as it takes. Hebastreit noted that the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its aftermath have played a significant role in shaping Scholz's tenure as chancellor.
As Scholz prepares to receive a grand military salute at the Ministry of Defense in Berlin on Monday evening, the German Bundestag is set to elect Friedrich Merz (CDU) as the new chancellor on Tuesday.
- Olaf Scholz
- Volodymyr Zelensky
- Steffen Hebestreit
- Ukraine
- SPD
Extra Insights:
In the recent conversation, there was no mention of an immediate ceasefire Agreement between Russia and Ukraine. Instead, the conversation centered around Germany's commitment to supporting Ukraine, including military aid, such as IRIS-T air defense systems and missiles for Patriots[1][2]. Friedrich Merz, the incoming chancellor, has also pledged to continue supporting Ukraine[1][2].
Furthermore, international efforts to impose economic pressure on Russia through sanctions, like the Action Plan 4.0 proposed by the International Working Group on Russian Sanctions, are ongoing[3], but they weren't a part of the Zelenskyy-Scholz phone call.
- Olaf Scholz, in his last call with Volodymyr Zelenskyy before the end of his term, emphasized Ukraine's unwavering desire for peace, as said by Steffen Hebestreit.
- During the conversation, Scholz expressly called upon Russian President Vladimir Putin to put an end to his cynical delay tactics and curb the brutal aggression against Ukraine.
- Shortly before his time as chancellor comes to an end, Olaf Scholz thanked Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the close and trusting bond they shared, and commended Zelenskyy's leadership amidst the war-and-conflicts in Ukraine.
- The SPD leader, Olaf Scholz, reassured Zelenskyy that Germany would stand by Ukraine, along with European and international partners, for as long as it takes, according to Steffen Hebestreit.
