### Zelensky Criticizes Scholz-Putin Call as Undermining Efforts to Isolate Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has voiced strong disapproval of a recent phone call between German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Zelensky argues that this conversation effectively weakens the international efforts to isolate Russia and benefits Putin's long-time interests. According to Zelensky, the call allows Putin to project an image of normalcy and undermines the push for a decisive resolution to the conflict that erupted with Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The phone call, held on a recent Friday, marks the first direct conversation between Scholz and Putin in nearly two years. This dialogue comes at a critical time as Scholz prepares for a snap election on February 23, facing mounting pressure from political factions advocating for increased diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing war. During the call, Scholz urged Putin to withdraw Russian forces from Ukraine and engage in meaningful negotiations aimed at achieving a "just and lasting peace."

While the German government stresses its unwavering support for Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression, European officials, including Zelensky, have expressed concerns about the call's implications. They argue that such discussions offer no tangible progress toward peace and merely allow Russia to maintain its current stance. Putin reportedly asserted during the call that any peace agreement must consider Russian security interests and reflect "new territorial realities."

Sources suggest that Scholz’s motivation for this call could be more about addressing domestic pressures rather than achieving diplomatic breakthroughs. With an election looming, Scholz's Social Democrats are under increasing scrutiny from Russia-friendly populists who criticize the government's diplomatic approach to ending the war.

Amid the tense backdrop of the call, Germany remains a significant supporter of Ukraine, contributing approximately 15 billion euros in financial, humanitarian, and military aid since the escalation of the conflict. However, uncertainty looms over future support from the United States following the recent election victory of Donald Trump, who has hinted at a quick resolution to the war but has offered no concrete plans.

The call also touched on Germany's potential interest in energy deals with Russia, which remains a sensitive topic given the cessation of direct energy shipments after the Baltic Sea pipelines were sabotaged in 2022. Furthermore, Scholz reportedly highlighted the involvement of North Korean troops fighting alongside Russian forces, an action viewed as an unwelcome escalation by the German leader.

Scholz plans to debrief Zelensky, as well as Germany's allies, partners, and leaders within the European Union and NATO, on the outcomes of his recent conversation with Putin. Despite their lengthy conversation, the two leaders have agreed to maintain contact moving forward, leaving the international community to closely monitor any developments.