Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that he "prefers" former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a negotiator for the Ukrainian conflict. The Russian leader made this statement while answering journalists' questions after the Victory Day parade. He was asked whether there were any "reasonable politicians" left in Western Europe with whom one could engage in dialogue. Putin replied: "For me personally, former Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Mr. Schröder, is preferable."

The German government rejected this proposal, Reuters, Süddeutsche Zeitung, Spiegel and other German media reported, citing sources.

According to the publication's sources, this proposal does not appear credible, as Russia has not changed any of its conditions. The first test of its credibility could be Moscow's willingness to extend the three-day ceasefire, the sources added.

The German government also notes that Schröder's mediation proposal "fits into a series of fictitious initiatives" and is part of Russia's hybrid strategy to divide Europe.

Gerhard Schröder served as Chancellor of Germany from 1998 to 2005. He is considered a close friend of Vladimir Putin. After his resignation, he chaired the board of directors of the Nord Stream project operator. From September 2017 to May 2022, Schröder also served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Rosneft.