In Putin’s appeal, Scholz urges diplomatic solution, withdrawal of Russian troops – POLITICO

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz held an hour-long call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday and called for a diplomatic solution to the war in Ukraine, including a withdrawal of Russian troops as soon as possible.

Scholz “underscored Germany’s determination to support Ukraine to ensure its defense capability against Russian aggression,” according to a statement from Scholz’s spokesperson. Scholz also “condemned Russian airstrikes against civilian infrastructure in Ukraine,” the statement said.

It was not reported how the Russian president responded to the chancellor’s proposal.

According to the spokesman, the pair also discussed the global food situation, both “underlining the important role of the recently expanded grain agreement under the auspices of the United Nations”.

They agreed to “stay in touch”.