Putin in touch: Why Western leaders are seeking a path to dialogue with the Kremlin.

Recently, some Western politicians have expressed a desire to renew dialogue with Russia. In particular, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico declared his readiness to restore "normal relations" with Russia, and the German government does not deny information about Chancellor Scholz's desire to speak with Putin.

Fico, while speaking with journalists, expressed his readiness to restore economic and general relations with Russia after the end of the Russian-Ukrainian war. He also states that the conflict in Ukraine cannot have a military solution. Chancellor Scholz also plans to call Putin, with whom he has not communicated since 2022.

Scholz himself stated the necessity of an international conference with the participation of Ukraine and Russia. Additionally, The South China Morning Post reported that German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock plans to discuss the Russian-Ukrainian war and other issues of relations with China.

Experts believe that a real diplomatic thaw with Russia is only possible after the end of the war. They also note that leaders of different countries have different motives for renewing relations with Russia.

Political scientist Viktor Nebozhenko emphasizes the complex geopolitical relations between Germany, Russia, and China. He argues that the USA influences relations between Germany and Russia, particularly through the sabotage of the "Nord Stream". Nebozhenko also notes that restoring close relations with Russia may lead to Ukraine being left in the role of an observer.