Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed readiness to compromise on the Ukraine conflict in potential discussions with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Speaking during his annual televised Q&A session on Thursday, Putin emphasized that Russia is open to negotiations without preconditions, including talks with Ukrainian authorities.
“We have always said we are ready for negotiations and compromises,” Putin stated. He affirmed that while Russian forces are advancing in Ukraine, the path to peace requires willingness from both sides.
Putin also highlighted his openness to meeting Trump, whom he hasn’t spoken to in years. Trump, known for his deal-making reputation, has vowed to resolve the conflict swiftly but has yet to outline a concrete plan.
Despite ruling out any immediate ceasefire, Putin reiterated Russia’s stance that lasting peace must be based on early negotiations, including a draft deal discussed in Istanbul during the war’s initial phase. He rejected suggestions of major territorial concessions, insisting Kyiv abandon its NATO ambitions.
On Ukraine’s leadership, Putin said Moscow would only negotiate with legally recognized authorities, noting that President Volodymyr Zelenskiy must secure re-election to validate any agreement.
The war, which began in 2022, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, displaced millions, and strained Moscow’s relations with the West to levels reminiscent of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Russia currently controls about a fifth of Ukraine, with ongoing offensives in key areas.
Putin defended Russia’s military operations as a defensive measure against NATO expansion and signaled confidence in achieving strategic objectives. However, he acknowledged the economic challenges caused by the conflict, including inflation and overheating, even as he claimed Russia’s growth surpasses other economies like the UK.
On the global stage, Putin touted Russia’s military capabilities, including the “Oreshnik” hypersonic missile, and dismissed rumors of diminishing Russian influence in the Middle East.
In Brussels, Zelenskiy dismissed Putin’s rhetoric, questioning his rationality and reaffirming Ukraine’s commitment to European unity against Russian aggression.
As the conflict persists, international observers await potential shifts in diplomacy under Trump’s administration.
