The prospect of success may be manageable, but Olaf Scholz wants to keep the conversation channel with the Kremlin open. In order to end the war in Ukraine, it is necessary to speak, says the chancellor. With a view to the consequences of the war for Germany, he remains in good spirits.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz has promised further talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on ending the war of aggression against Ukraine. "Our goal is for Russia to end its war of aggression and for Ukraine to defend its integrity," Scholz told the Süddeutsche Zeitung. For this it will “be necessary to speak,” explained Scholz. "Whether that's done by phone, video link or at a long table remains to be seen." Russia must "recognize that things can't go on like this".
In early December, Scholz called Putin for the first time since mid-September. According to Steffen Hebestreit, the chancellor pushed for a diplomatic solution as quickly as possible during the hour-long conversation. Putin must "end the war, withdraw troops and thus create the opportunity for mutual understanding," Scholz repeated again. The appeal could only be: "Putin, end this war." In view of Russia's military failure, the danger of an escalation is "great".
As far as the situation in his own country is concerned, the Chancellor sees reason for optimism. He does not expect a gas emergency, neither this winter nor the following. In view of the state aid programs that have already been launched, "it can be assumed that with this sum we can mitigate the high prices this winter and next," said Scholz. In the future, the supply situation should improve and prices on the energy market should go back down. Despite the Russian supply freeze, the supply of gas will also be guaranteed in the coming winter.
With a view to the raw materials needed for the energy transition, Germany must also overcome its "reluctance" when it comes to procurement. In the future, for example, the country must be "honest enough" to say that the cobalt needed for batteries in electric cars can be mined "with our support" and ensure "better working and environmental conditions". "We can't afford to be etepetete," Scholz continued.
