Scholz Seeks Dialogue with Putin Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict

Chancellor Olaf Scholz is planning to initiate a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time in nearly two years. This move comes ahead of the G20 summit in November, aiming to rekindle direct dialogue between Germany and Russia.

Scholz's attempt represents a significant shift, as he would be the first among the major supporters of Ukraine to re-establish contact with the Russian leader since the war began. The conversation, however, is still in the preparatory stages and has not yet been officially requested.

Meanwhile, the United Nations has reported severe torture and ill-treatment of prisoners of war on both sides of the conflict. Ukrainian prisoners have faced continuous abuse throughout their captivity, while Russian prisoners reported mistreatment mainly during arrest or transport.

Ukrainian officials have also reported new Russian attacks on Zaporizhzhia, resulting in casualties and damage to residential buildings and critical infrastructure, including a transformer substation. Concurrently, Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umjerow has dismissed three of his deputies and a state secretary, citing the need for transparency and control within the ministry.

This shake-up is part of a broader effort to reform the procurement system, following allegations of corruption under his predecessor. As the conflict continues, Scholz's proposed dialogue with Putin could mark a pivotal moment in diplomatic efforts to address the ongoing war and its devastating impacts.