German Chancellor Olaf Scholz made a significant phone call to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump during the European Council summit in Brussels on Thursday. The two leaders reportedly agreed on the urgency of finding a “fair, just, and sustainable peace” in Ukraine as the war with Russia continues into its second year.
Scholz and Trump’s Common Ground on Ukraine
The call, initiated by Scholz, marks the second recent conversation between the German leader and Trump, following a post-election discussion in November. German government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit emphasized that both leaders acknowledged the protracted nature of the conflict and the need for immediate progress toward peace.
Scholz reiterated Germany’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense, underscoring Berlin’s ongoing military and humanitarian support for Kyiv. However, the tone of the conversation also hinted at potential recalibrations in transatlantic dynamics with Trump’s impending presidency.
EU Braces for Shift in U.S. Ukraine Policy
The phone call came as European leaders convened in Brussels to discuss pressing global issues, including how to adapt to the likelihood of reduced U.S. support for Ukraine during Trump’s second term. Trump has been vocal about expecting Europe to shoulder a larger share of the burden in aiding Ukraine, raising concerns in Kyiv and among NATO allies.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, present at the summit, welcomed Trump’s election victory but stressed the need for robust NATO support. “European guarantees won’t be sufficient for Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said, adding that “real guarantees must come from NATO — which includes the U.S.”
Zelenskyy also extended an olive branch to Trump, expressing hope that the U.S. president-elect would play a decisive role in ending the conflict. “Welcome, Donald,” Zelenskyy quipped to reporters, adding, “I very much want Trump to help us and finish this war.”
Trump’s Balancing Act: NATO and Cease-Fire Talks
Trump’s return to the White House raises questions about America’s future role in the Ukraine war. While he has previously criticized European nations for not doing enough, Trump’s administration is likely to push Europe to take on more responsibilities, both militarily and in negotiating a cease-fire with Moscow.
During a similar call with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Wednesday, Trump reiterated his stance, with Starmer emphasizing the need for Western allies to “stand together” on Ukraine.
Path Forward for Scholz, Europe, and Trump
The European Council summit underscored a growing sense of urgency among EU leaders to prepare for shifting dynamics in transatlantic relations. Scholz’s outreach to Trump highlights Germany’s pivotal role in bridging the gap between European and U.S. priorities in Ukraine.
As Trump’s presidency looms, Ukraine faces an uncertain future. While European leaders remain committed to supporting Kyiv, Zelenskyy’s insistence on stronger NATO guarantees reflects a deep-seated apprehension about whether Europe alone can sustain the pressure against Moscow.
With Trump poised to reshape U.S. foreign policy, Scholz’s efforts to maintain alignment between Europe and Washington could prove crucial in navigating the delicate path toward peace in Ukraine.