On a phone conversation, Russian President Vladimir Putin and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz discussed European security problems as well as the situation in Ukraine. Putin briefed Scholz on Tuesday of Russian proposals for long-term and legally enforceable security assurances that prevent the North Atlantic Treaty Organization from extending eastwards and putting offensive weapons near Russia, according to a press statement.

They also spoke on how to resolve Ukraine's internal issue, with Putin reminding Scholz that "Kiev is still resolutely evading its obligations under the 2015 Minsk accords." In terms of Russian-German relations, the leaders underlined a shared desire to strengthen bilateral relationships and maintain touch through a variety of channels.

Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron had a phone chat earlier in the day to discuss European security problems and the situation in Ukraine.

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