In a bid to accelerate the resolution of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has emphasized the necessity of including Russia in a future peace conference. The announcement came following discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a bilateral meeting in Frankfurt on Sunday.

During an interview with Germany's ZDF public television, Scholz expressed his belief that urgent measures need to be taken to bring an end to the war. He stated, "I believe that now is the moment when we must discuss how we get out of this war situation faster than the current impression is."

The previous peace conference, held on June 15-16 in Switzerland, saw the participation of 78 countries that expressed their support for Ukraine's territorial integrity. However, the absence of Russia left the path for a peaceful resolution unclear.

Both Scholz and Zelenskyy agreed on the necessity of Russia's presence in future peace negotiations. Scholz affirmed, "There will certainly be a further peace conference, and the president and I agree that it must be one with Russia present." This statement highlights the importance of engaging all relevant parties in finding a viable solution.

However, Scholz is not without challenges on the domestic front, as his government's support for Ukraine has been met with increasing political discontent. Populist parties that oppose arming Ukraine gained ground in state elections held on September 1, resulting in a setback for the parties in Scholz's three-party governing coalition. Some members of his own Social Democratic Party have also called for a more diplomatic approach towards Russia.

President Zelenskyy, on his part, has presented a 10-point peace formula aimed at resolving the conflict. The plan includes the expulsion of all Russian forces from Ukrainian territory and ensuring accountability for war crimes committed during the conflict.

As efforts to reach a peaceful resolution continue, the inclusion of Russia in future peace negotiations remains a crucial step towards achieving lasting stability in the region. The international community will be closely observing the developments in this critical process, with hopes for a constructive and inclusive dialogue that brings an end to the hostilities and establishes a sustainable peace in Ukraine.