Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his willingness to engage in potential peace talks with US President-elect Donald Trump, signalling a readiness to “compromise” on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In an interview with a US news channel on Thursday, the 72-year-old Russian leader stated he had not spoken to Trump in years but would be open to meeting the incoming president after his inauguration in January 2025. “Of course, I am ready for this at any time,” Putin said, adding that he would welcome discussions if Trump initiated them.
Trump’s promise to end global conflicts
Donald Trump, who secured victory in the 2024 US presidential election, has suggested he intends to bring an end to various global conflicts, including the war in Ukraine. However, he has not disclosed specific plans for achieving peace in the region.
Putin’s remarks came during his end-of-year press conference broadcast on Russian state television, where he outlined his openness to discussions. “We have always said that we are ready for negotiations and compromises,” he asserted, emphasising the importance of reciprocal willingness from all parties involved.
Trump’s previous interactions with Putin have been the subject of much speculation. According to journalist Bob Woodward’s writings, the two leaders have exchanged several calls since Trump’s departure from the White House in 2021. Trump has denied these claims, while Putin remained silent on the matter during the press conference.
Ukraine’s heavy toll
The war in Ukraine, now nearing its third year since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, has inflicted devastating losses on both sides. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy recently reported that 43,000 Ukrainian soldiers had died in the conflict. He also alleged that Russian casualties exceeded 198,000, though the Kremlin has not confirmed this figure.
Putin appeared to downplay the continued resistance from Ukraine, stating, “Soon, those Ukrainians who want to fight will run out. In my opinion, soon there will be no one left who wants to fight.” His remarks underscored Russia’s belief that Ukrainian resolve may wane, potentially paving the way for negotiations.
However, Zelenskiy has shown little inclination towards compromise, maintaining that any peace talks must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Open to talks with zelenskiy
Putin reiterated his openness to dialogue not only with Trump but also with President Zelenskiy, insisting there were no preconditions for starting negotiations. “We are ready,” he said. “But the other side needs to be ready for both negotiations and compromises.”
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The Kremlin’s stance comes amidst mounting international pressure to end the conflict, which has had far-reaching humanitarian and economic consequences. Western nations, led by the US, have provided significant military aid to Ukraine, while imposing extensive sanctions on Russia.
Uncertainty around Putin-Trump meeting
Despite Putin’s apparent readiness to engage with Trump, no timeline or concrete plans for a meeting between the two leaders have been confirmed. The prospect of a summit between the pair raises questions about the future direction of US foreign policy and its potential impact on the Ukraine war.
Trump’s return to the White House could herald a shift in America’s approach, particularly given his previously expressed admiration for Putin and his criticism of US involvement in international conflicts. However, it remains unclear whether such a shift would lead to a resolution in Ukraine or further complicate the geopolitical landscape.
Global stakes
The war in Ukraine has become a defining issue for global stability, with ramifications far beyond the region. Millions of Ukrainians have been displaced, and thousands of civilians have lost their lives in the conflict. Meanwhile, Western allies continue to push for a united front against Russian aggression, emphasising the need for accountability and justice.
Putin’s latest statements suggest a willingness to explore diplomatic avenues, but the feasibility of achieving a meaningful compromise remains uncertain. For now, the world watches closely as Trump prepares to assume office, with hopes that renewed dialogue may pave the way for peace.
As 2025 approaches, the potential interplay between Trump’s leadership and Putin’s overtures will likely shape the trajectory of one of the most significant conflicts of the 21st century. Whether their engagement results in resolution or further discord remains to be seen.
