Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed readiness to negotiate over the Ukraine conflict, signaling openness to talks with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Speaking during his annual televised Q&A, Putin reiterated Russia’s willingness to compromise but emphasized that any agreement must align with Moscow’s objectives, including its territorial claims.
Putin ruled out conditions for initiating talks with Ukraine, stating his readiness to negotiate with anyone, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. However, he stressed that any deal must be signed by Ukraine’s legitimate authorities, which Russia currently recognizes as the Ukrainian parliament. He noted Zelenskiy would need re-election under martial law for Moscow to consider him a valid signatory.
Rejecting the idea of a temporary truce, Putin insisted on a long-term peace agreement, referencing a preliminary deal negotiated early in the war that was never implemented. Ukrainian leaders have criticized the draft as capitulatory.
The conflict, which began with Russia’s 2022 invasion, has devastated Ukraine, leaving tens of thousands dead and millions displaced. While Russian forces have captured significant territory, Putin described the fighting as complex but progressing toward Russia’s stated goals. He also claimed the Russian economy, despite inflationary pressures, is outperforming Western economies like Britain’s.
Putin said he regretted not launching the invasion earlier, asserting that Russia should have been better prepared. Addressing questions on his leadership, he claimed to have safeguarded Russia’s sovereignty and moved the nation “back from the edge of the abyss.”
In Brussels, Zelenskiy dismissed Putin’s remarks on missile tests and negotiations, questioning the Russian leader’s sanity during a European Council press conference.
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