Russian President’s Press Secretary Dmitri Peskov addressed Olaf Scholz’s public remark about arranging a phone conversation with Vladimir Putin during a press briefing with reporters. Peskov made clear that there was no indication Germany had already reached out to initiate a call. He emphasized that a discussion would require proper outreach and timing, underscoring Moscow’s readiness to engage in dialogue if it serves Russia’s strategic interests. Peskov also noted that Putin remains open to dialogue, provided the discussions align with protecting Russia’s security and sovereignty. This stance reflects Moscow’s long-standing approach: dialogue is possible when it supports Russia’s core goals, and not otherwise. The briefing painted a cautious picture of how negotiations might unfold, contingent on reciprocal steps and mutual respect for national interests. (Source: Kremlin press briefing, attributed to Peskov.)
Scholz, for his part, has previously signaled an intention to speak with Putin again, highlighting that there has been a gap since their last meeting but that a future encounter could take place when circumstances allow. The German chancellor stressed that he plans to resume direct dialogue with the Russian president when the moment feels right, framing the potential call as part of a broader effort to manage the relationship and seek clarity on major issues. Scholz’s language suggested a preference for concrete opportunities to reassess bilateral and international questions in a direct format, rather than relying solely on intermediate channels. (Source: German government briefing, attributed to Scholz’s statements.)
Earlier remarks from Scholz indicated that Putin did not threaten Germany in recent discussions, and the German leader described the conversations as clarifying divergent views on the Ukraine crisis. He recalled exchange where both sides presented their perspectives openly, signaling a willingness to keep channels of communication open while recognizing serious disagreements. The description of “very different perspectives” gaining clarity pointed to the complexity of the conflict and the importance that Berlin attaches to direct dialogue with Moscow as part of a broader European security framework. (Source: German government summaries, attributed to Scholz’s comments.)