The Russian president mentioned Schröder during a press moment following the May 9 parade on Red Square as his favorite European dialogue partner. Putin said that of all European politicians, he would most prefer to speak with the former German chancellor.
'Approaching an End'
According to Putin, the war in Ukraine may be nearing an end. He said that "the confrontation with Russia" is, in his view, “coming to an end,” but he still described the situation as serious. He apparently referred to the European stance towards Moscow.
The statements came during a temporary three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. The ceasefire was established following talks involving the United States.
Promotion
At the same time, discussions are ongoing within Europe about a possible greater European role in future negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
Reserved
German government sources responded cautiously to Putin’s proposal. They called the idea not credible as long as Russia does not change its conditions for ending the war. According to the same sources, an extension of the current ceasefire would be an initial test of Russian credibility.
EU Council President Costa also pointed out that nothing has changed yet regarding the European conditions for ending hostilities.
Germany
Schröder’s office declined to comment on Putin’s statements. Within Germany, the proposal immediately caused division. Some politicians consider Schröder unsuitable due to his long-standing ties with Moscow and his personal relationship with Putin.
Other politicians within the German Social Democratic Party (SPD) did not entirely rule out a possible role for Schröder. They believe Europe should find its own position and take a larger role in future peace negotiations about Ukraine.
Nord Stream
Schröder has been criticized for years because of his close involvement with Russian energy companies after his political career. He was a strong advocate for the Nord Stream pipeline through the Baltic Sea from Russia to Western Europe. This pipeline was blown up shortly before its commissioning, coinciding with the outbreak of the Russian war against Ukraine. As a result, EU countries had to accelerate reducing their dependency on Russian energy.
Unclear
Putin also stated that Russia is open to outside assistance in possible negotiations. According to him, Russia and Ukraine ultimately must reach a peaceful solution themselves, although he said he appreciates support from others in this regard.
It remains unclear what exact role Putin envisions for Schröder. The Russian president spoke of a possible European mediator but did not clarify on whose behalf Schröder would act or what such talks should look like.