German Defense Minister backs Scholz's outreach to Putin despite Zelenskyy's remarks

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius defended Chancellor Olaf Scholz's recent call with Vladimir Putin, saying it was important to state Germany's expectations directly.

He noted that Germany continues to push for an end to Russia’s war against Ukraine, but Putin has shown no readiness for peace, as evidenced by the brutal November 17 Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.

Pistorius emphasized that while peace talks with Putin seem unlikely now, efforts must continue alongside support for Ukraine.

Responding to criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Pistorius rejected claims that Scholz's outreach undermined international isolation of Putin, pointing out the Russian leader's ongoing global presence.

He stressed that any negotiations involving Ukraine must include Kyiv and ensure it remains in a strong position with Western backing.