Putin names Schröder as preferred European mediator for Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin has nominated former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as his preferred European mediator in Ukraine peace negotiations, according to German public broadcaster Tagesschau.

Putin and Schröder, who maintain a close personal relationship dating to their years working together in the 2000s, have been discussed as potential intermediaries in diplomatic channels. The Kremlin chief characterized the Ukraine conflict as approaching its conclusion, the report states.

Schröder, who left office in 2005, has faced sustained criticism across Europe and Germany for his ties to Russian energy interests and his refusal to condemn Moscow's 2022 invasion. His nomination as mediator signals Putin's preference for negotiations with figures seen as sympathetic to Russian interests.

The move comes as diplomatic efforts to resolve the 28-month conflict remain largely stalled, with both Kyiv and Western partners skeptical of Russian sincerity in peace talks.