In a recent phone call, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Russian President Vladimir Putin had their first official dialogue since 2022. And while it’s good to see diplomacy at least being attempted, the content of their conversation reveals the delusional nature of Putin’s demands. The Russian leader reportedly insisted that any resolution to end the war in Ukraine must include recognition of Russia’s occupation of Ukrainian territories and for Ukraine to abandon its aspirations to join NATO.

In the real world, where nations respect the sovereignty of their neighbors, such demands would be laughed off the table. But here we are, facing a Russian leader who seems to believe he can rewrite international law by force and threats. As Christians, we know that the truth will eventually prevail, but it’s important to confront this twisted narrative now.

Occupied Territories: Not Yours to Keep, Vladimir

Let’s start with Putin’s demand for international recognition of the territories that Russia has seized. This is akin to a thief demanding the deed to your house after he broke in and claimed your living room. The very idea is ludicrous. Russia invaded a sovereign nation in broad daylight, and instead of taking responsibility or seeking genuine peace, Putin expects the world to legitimize his theft. It’s a classic case of “might makes right” — a philosophy that’s as ungodly as it is immoral.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was unprovoked, and the annexation of Ukrainian territories like Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk is a direct violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty. In truth, Russia should be forced to return every inch of occupied land, not rewarded for its aggression. Let’s remember the Biblical principle from Habakkuk 2:12: “Woe to him that buildeth a town with blood, and stablisheth a city by iniquity!” God does not bless those who expand their borders through violence and deceit.

Ukraine’s Right to Join NATO: A Matter of Sovereignty

Putin’s second demand — that Ukraine abandon its desire to join NATO — is equally outrageous. Let’s be clear: as a sovereign nation, Ukraine has every right to determine its own future, including its alliances. The desire to join NATO is not only reasonable but downright logical after Russia’s recent aggression. If your neighbor bulldozes your fence and sets your house on fire, you’d be looking to put up stronger barriers, wouldn’t you?

For years, Russia has used the specter of NATO expansion as a pretext for its own military aggression, as if Ukraine’s wish to join a defensive alliance somehow justifies Russia’s invasions. It’s the ultimate gaslighting tactic: “I’m only hurting you because you might protect yourself someday.” This twisted logic doesn’t hold water.

A Call for Real Diplomacy, Not Delusion

Olaf Scholz has faced criticism for being too soft on Russia in the past, but this call was a chance to stand firm. The world needs leaders who will challenge Putin’s imperialistic fantasies with unwavering conviction. Any peace deal that cedes Ukrainian territory to Russia would not be a settlement; it would be a surrender of principle.

As Christians and conservatives, we stand on the side of truth and justice, which includes standing with nations that fight for their freedom and sovereignty. Ukraine’s borders were set long before Putin’s ambitions of empire-building, and they deserve to be respected.

The Role of the West: Time to Get Serious

Putin’s phone call with Scholz also highlights a larger issue: the West’s inconsistent response to Russian aggression. Yes, there have been sanctions and military aid packages, but the free world must do more to stand against tyranny. We can’t just offer empty words while a sovereign nation is being invaded.

The current situation should serve as a wake-up call. Putin’s demands aren’t just about Ukraine; they’re about undermining the entire international order. If Russia gets away with this, who’s next? Moldova? Georgia? The Baltic states? History shows that appeasement only emboldens tyrants. This is a time for the West to show resolve, not retreat.

Conclusion: Stand Firm, Ukraine

In light of these absurd demands from the Kremlin, it’s clearer than ever why Ukraine seeks the protection of NATO. The only way to deter future aggression from Russia is to make sure it faces real consequences for its actions. That includes restoring all occupied territories back to Ukraine and respecting Ukraine’s right to choose its own path.

The world is watching this moment in history unfold. Let’s pray for wisdom for our leaders and peace for the people of Ukraine. And let’s also remember the words of Romans 12:21: “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” We cannot let evil triumph by conceding to the unreasonable demands of a dictator. Instead, we must stand with the truth, with justice, and with the oppressed.

Putin’s demands may be as bold as they are irrational, but we serve a God who is greater than any earthly ruler. The truth will win out, no matter how much darkness tries to overshadow it.