Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (SPD) spoke by phone with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky just before the end of his term. The Russian aggression against Ukraine and its consequences have largely defined Chancellor Scholz’s tenure, according to Government Spokesman Steffen Hebestreit.
Chancellor Scholz thanked President Zelensky for the close and trusting cooperation. He praised the leadership strength and courage of the Ukrainian President and the Ukrainian people in their fight against Russian aggression, it was stated. From his two visits to Kyiv during wartime in June 2022 and December 2024, the Chancellor made a personal impression.
The Chancellor and the Ukrainian President exchanged views on the current situation and ways to achieve a lasting and just peace in Ukraine. The Chancellor emphasized that the readiness of the Ukrainian President to declare a 30-day unconditional ceasefire shows that nobody wants peace more than Ukraine. This must also be matched by the Russian President, who must abandon his cynical delaying tactics and end his relentless campaign.
The Chancellor reiterated Germany’s ongoing and unwavering solidarity with Ukraine. He is convinced that Germany will continue to support Ukraine closely in cooperation with European and international partners for as long as necessary.