Donald Trump, Olaf Scholz and Vladimir Putin.
With the unexpected victory of Donald Trump in the presidential elections in the United States, murmurs of important changes in global politics have begun. Germany, for its part, has taken the initiative to end the war between Russia and Ukraine and has communicated directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called Putin and not only appealed to stop the war, but also insisted on finding a diplomatic solution by eliminating mutual differences. This is the first time that these talks have taken place between the top leaders of a NATO member country and Russia since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in February 2022.
Donald Trump’s return to power clearly indicates that the United States now wants to withdraw from the military conflict against Russia. Due to Trump’s America First policy, the possibility of rifts within NATO has increased. Germany considered that this was the right time to take advantage of this change in the United States’ attitude to improve relations with Russia.
In this conversation, Putin blamed NATO and said that this war had occurred because of the aggressive policies of Western countries. He clarified that Russia is always willing to dialogue, but Ukraine and its allies will have to accept the new regional realities.
Zelensky’s anger
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is angry with this initiative from Germany. He says this move will sabotage all efforts to isolate Putin. Zelensky has warned that if concessions are made to Russia, Putin may calm down for a short time but that will make him more aggressive in the future.
New equations begin in Europe
This dialogue between Germany and Russia points to a great change. Germany, which has so far followed NATO policy, is trying to create its own path as it senses the shift in Trump’s US policy. Experts believe that this initiative can change the balance of power in Europe.
Will Ukraine receive support?
After Trump’s return to power and Germany’s initiative, the question arises whether Ukraine will now get the support of the West as before. If the United States backs down and European countries adopt the path of diplomacy with Russia, it will be a serious blow for Ukraine.
Putin’s message
Putin hinted at restoring energy and trade ties in talks with Germany. He said that Russia always respects its agreements and is ready to resume cooperation with Germany if Germany shows interest in it.
What will happen now?
After Donald Trump’s victory, an earthquake has occurred in international politics. It appears from the talks between Germany and Russia that in the future many European countries will take steps towards friendship with Russia. As soon as the United States withdraws, most countries in Europe will try to establish direct communication with Russia to ensure their security. But it remains to be seen what place Ukraine will occupy in these changing equations.
Kremlin statement on Putin’s talks with the German chancellor
On the initiative of Germany, for the first time since December 2022, a telephone conversation took place between President Putin and Chancellor Olaf Scholz. During it, the question of Ukraine was discussed. Putin said the current crisis is the result of NATO’s long-standing aggressive policy. Their goal is to build an anti-Russian bridge over Ukraine. Ignoring our interests in the field of security and trampling on the rights of Russian citizens.
Regarding the possibilities of a political and diplomatic solution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, President Putin said that Russia has never refused. Everyone knows Russia’s proposal. Possible agreements should take into account Russia’s security interests. Russia has always fulfilled its treaties in the energy sector. If Germany is interested in this, then it is ready for beneficial cooperation.
During this, the situation in the Middle East was also discussed. Putin reported on the efforts made by Russia to reduce the crisis in the region and find a peaceful solution. It was agreed that the leaders’ advisers would remain in touch after the talks.
